If you are pregnant, you are to be congratulated on your incoming addition to your family! You may be eager to welcome your new child with a warm and beautiful smile — but what if you have missing teeth? Can you get dental implants during pregnancy? In this blog post, you will learn why it would be best to wait until after you give birth to rebuild your lost dentition.
Sedation and Pregnancy
Sedation is often required during dental implant procedures to ensure comfort and precision. However, the medications used for sedation can pass through the placenta and pose risks to the developing fetus. For this reason, it is best to postpone elective treatments that require sedation until after you give birth.
Pain Management Challenges
Pain management after dental implant surgery typically involves the use of medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids. Many of these medicines are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the baby, including complications during delivery. Managing post-surgical pain without suitable medications could make your recovery process unduly uncomfortable.
Imaging and Radiation Exposure
Dental implants require imaging, including X-rays or cone beam CT scans, to assess jawbone structure and accurately plan the placement of the implants. Although modern imaging devices emit low levels of radiation, even minimal exposure can be a concern during pregnancy, particularly in the early months. Dentists often err on the side of caution by postponing procedures that require imaging until after delivery.
Dental Health Concerns During Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to increased sensitivity of the gums and a higher risk of gum disease. These conditions can affect the success of the procedure and prolong recovery times. After you give birth, your hormones should stabilize, leading to reduced oral health risks and a greater chance of dental implant success.
Plan for Your Future Smile
Although dental implants are not advised during pregnancy, there is plenty you can do now to prepare for your future smile. Visiting your dentist regularly during pregnancy can allow you to maintain your oral health and avoid complications that might interfere with your implant process later on. Your dentist can also assist you in creating a comprehensive plan for tooth replacement after delivery.
You should not get dental implants during pregnancy, but afterward, you can eagerly move forward with rebuilding a complete and healthy smile!
Meet the Practice
At Dental Center Aspen Hill, our team is proud to provide start-to-finish dental implant services in a welcoming environment. If you would like help to manage your oral health during pregnancy, or you are ready to replace your missing teeth, we would be pleased to serve you. Contact our office at 301-871-8000.