Is orthodontics during pregnancy possible?

In general, there is no abnormal relationship between orthodontics and pregnancy, although some factors during pregnancy can interfere with treatment. Dr. De la Iglesia, a specialist in Dentistry, explains all the details that a pregnant woman or a woman who is looking for a baby should take into account if she is considering undergoing an orthodontic procedure.

Contraindications for pregnant women

First of all, the teeth and gums acquire a certain degree of vulnerability during pregnancy due to the physiological changes that occur. In addition, some of the diagnostic tests for orthodontics are not recommended during pregnancy.

The exposure to X-rays in dental X-rays is low, but it can still cause alterations in the fetus, especially during the first trimester. Pregnant women should only undergo an X-ray when strictly necessary and always protecting the fetus.

On the other hand, due to hormonal and vascular changes during pregnancy, gums tend to become inflamed and bleed easily. The defenses are lowered and the pH of the saliva changes, so there is a greater risk of infections, caries, erosions, tooth mobility and pathologies such as gingivitis, so good dental hygiene during pregnancy is essential and even more so with braces.

Orthodontics during pregnancy

It is always preferable for pregnant women to opt for a type of orthodontics that facilitates oral hygiene such as the Invisalign system, which can be removed for eating and brushing teeth. On the other hand, lingual orthodontics such as braces make hygiene more difficult because it is easier for food debris to accumulate on the teeth.

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It is normal to feel discomfort the first few days after the implantation of the orthodontic system, but some pain relief medications are not indicated for pregnant women. For this reason, it is important to consult a specialist before self-medicating.