Can You Get Braces or Aligners While Pregnant? What You Need to Know

When you’re pregnant, you're naturally more cautious about your health and well-being. If you're considering orthodontic treatment, you might wonder: "Can I get braces or clear aligners while pregnant?" It's a valid concern, and while the answer isn't one-size-fits-all, there are key factors to keep in mind when it comes to your treatment options during pregnancy. In this post, we’ll explore the facts behind both traditional braces and aligners, so you can make an informed decision that’s right for both you and your baby.

1. Yes, You Can Get Braces or Aligners While Pregnant, But Timing Matters

Both traditional braces and clear aligners (like Invisalign) are generally safe during pregnancy. However, timing your orthodontic treatment is crucial. Many orthodontists recommend waiting until after the first trimester, as this is the most critical period of fetal development.

The Facts:

• First Trimester: Since the first trimester is crucial for fetal development, many orthodontists advise against starting treatment during this time, since we typically do not take non-essential x-ray during this time.

• Second Trimester: This is generally the best time to begin orthodontic treatment, whether with braces or aligners. At this stage, the risks are lower, and many women feel better physically, making it easier to tolerate the orthodontic process.

• Third Trimester: It’s still possible to get braces or aligners in the third trimester, but the physical discomfort from pregnancy may make it more challenging to undergo treatment. Additionally, sitting for long periods in the orthodontist’s chair might become uncomfortable.

  
  

2. Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Dental Health

During pregnancy, your body goes through various hormonal changes, which can affect your gums and teeth. This is especially important to consider when you’re wearing braces or aligners, as these dental appliances can trap food particles, making good oral hygiene more difficult.

The Facts:

• Gum Sensitivity: Pregnancy hormones can lead to pregnancy gingivitis, causing swollen, tender gums that bleed more easily. This can be challenging to manage, especially if you’re wearing traditional braces or aligners.

• Maintaining Hygiene: Proper cleaning is crucial during orthodontic treatment. If you’re wearing traditional braces, food can get stuck around the brackets, while aligners may retain plaque if they aren’t cleaned properly. It's essential to brush and floss after every meal and to clean your aligners (if you're using them) regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

  
  

Make sure to schedule regular dental check-ups during your pregnancy to stay on top of your oral health.

3. What About X-Rays During Pregnancy?

Whether you’re getting braces or aligners, your orthodontist may need to take X-rays to evaluate your teeth and jaw alignment. During pregnancy, it’s important to minimize unnecessary exposure to radiation, but modern technology allows for safe X-rays during pregnancy.

The Facts:

• X-ray Safety: Orthodontists use digital X-rays, which emit significantly less radiation than traditional X-ray machines.

• Alternatives to X-rays: In some cases, your orthodontist might decide to delay any X-ray-based evaluations until after the pregnancy, especially if it’s non-essential to your treatment.

  
  

Always inform your orthodontist about your pregnancy, so they can take the necessary precautions.

4. Pain and Discomfort: Is It Safe to Manage While Pregnant?

Both traditional braces and aligners can cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments or aligner changes. However, managing this discomfort during pregnancy requires extra care to ensure that you’re using safe methods.

The Facts:

• Pain Relief: It’s normal to experience mild soreness after getting braces or aligners or after adjustments. For pain relief, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but you may have to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, especially in the third trimester.

• Orthodontic Wax and Cold Compresses: If you wear traditional braces, you can use orthodontic wax to relieve irritation from the brackets and wires. For both braces and aligners, cold compresses can help reduce swelling or soreness. These non-medical remedies are safe and effective.

  
  

Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications, even over-the-counter options.

5. Pregnancy and Tooth Movement: Will Braces or Aligners Work Differently?

Pregnancy can cause changes in your body that might slightly affect how your teeth respond to orthodontic treatment. However, both traditional braces and clear aligners remain effective throughout pregnancy.

The Facts:

• Braces vs. Aligners: Whether you choose traditional braces or clear aligners, both will work to shift your teeth into the correct position. Hormonal changes might cause your gums and ligaments to relax, which could lead to slightly faster or slower tooth movement. However, this difference is typically minimal and does not affect the overall success of treatment.

  
  

• Slower Tooth Movement: Some studies suggest that pregnancy hormones might slightly slow tooth movement due to changes in the ligaments around your teeth, but these effects are usually not significant enough to cause major delays. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.

  
  

If you wear aligners, it’s particularly important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions on wearing your aligners consistently to ensure optimal results.

Long Story Short

In conclusion, getting braces or aligners while pregnant is generally safe, but it’s essential to plan your treatment carefully. The second trimester is often the best time to start, as it allows for safer and more comfortable orthodontic care. Whether you choose traditional braces or clear aligners, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding unnecessary X-rays, and managing discomfort with safe pain relief methods will help ensure a smoother treatment experience during your pregnancy.

Thinking about braces or aligners while pregnant? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can tailor your treatment to fit your needs during pregnancy. We're here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile — safely and comfortably!

References:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Dental care during pregnancy. ACOG. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org

American Association of Orthodontists. (2019). Can I get braces or aligners while pregnant? Retrieved from https://www.aaoinfo.org

Baker, S. R., & English, W. L. (2012). The safety of dental treatment during pregnancy. Journal of the American Dental Association, 143(6), 726–730. https://doi.org/10.14219/jada.archive.2012.0146

National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2020). Pregnancy and dental care. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Retrieved from https://www.nidcr.nih.gov