Are Clear Aligners Safe During Pregnancy?

Key Takeaways

Clear aligners are completely safe during pregnancy. They are a non-invasive orthodontic option for straightening teeth. A woman's body goes through major changes during pregnancy. Some changes also affect teeth and gums. While considering orthodontic treatment, many woman wonder whether clear aligners during pregnancy are safe for them and their baby, or whether they need to wait until after childbirth. Although they are safe, the right approach to managing them is important for a better experience. Let's discuss in detail.

Are Clear Aligners Safe During Pregnancy?

If you are pregnant, you may be wondering whether clear aligners are safe during pregnancy and whether treatment can be started or continued during this time. For most patients, clear aligners are safe to use under professional supervision.

Clear aligners work by applying controlled forces to specific teeth to gradually move them into their ideal positions. The ADA notes that diagnostic, preventive, and restorative dental treatments are safe during pregnancy.

Factors that Make Clear Aligners Safe

Aligners are considered a safe choice because:

• They are made from safe, FDA-cleared thermoplastic materials that are suitable for long-term use.
• Aligner treatment is non-surgical; nothing cuts your skin, and no tools will be inserted into your body.
• Aligner treatment doesn't require anesthesia or any other prescription medicines. Pain can be managed easily.

How Pregnancy Can Affect Your Teeth and Gums

Getting orthodontic treatment during pregnancy needs special consideration because, among other changes in the body, your teeth and gums may also be affected.

Some common oral changes during pregnancy include:

• Gum inflammation: Hormonal changes cause gum sensitivity, leading to red, swollen gums prone to bleeding.
• Increased cavity risk: Disturbed eating habits, frequent snacking, and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene increase the risk of cavities.
• Morning sickness: Enamel erosion occurs when teeth get exposed to stomach acid during frequent vomiting in the morning.
• Tender gums: During pregnancy, tender or swollen gums make aligner wear uncomfortable.
• Temporary tooth mobility: Hormonal fluctuations, such as an increase in progesterone and estrogen levels, loosen teeth temporarily.

Is It Better to Start Treatment Before or After Pregnancy?

There is no universal answer for this. Starting aligner treatment before or after pregnancy depends on the stage of pregnancy and your orthodontist and obstetrician's guidance. The stage of pregnancy affects the appointment planning.

During the early stages, morning sickness is quite common. It may trigger gagging while wearing or removing aligners. During the third trimester, dental appointments are avoided because sitting in a dental chair for extended periods becomes uncomfortable.

How to Care for Your Aligners During Pregnancy

Maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy is extremely important, especially if you are using aligners. Here are some tips to care for your aligners during pregnancy:

• Brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in after eating. In this way, bacteria or food particles won't get trapped against your teeth.
• Regularly clean your aligner trays and teeth before reinserting the aligner. Follow your provider's instructions for cleaning your aligners.
• Don't brush your teeth immediately after vomiting because stomach acid causes enamel erosion. Rinse your mouth with water after vomiting.
• Contact your provider or dentist if you notice pain or discomfort while wearing aligners.

Is Pregnancy the Right Time to Straighten Your Teeth?

Clear aligners are safe during pregnancy for most patients. Pregnancy alone doesn't stop you from getting aligners. However, pregnancy affects your gums and oral hygiene. While considering clear aligners during pregnancy, discuss your plans with your orthodontist and obstetrician. Together, they can decide whether starting aligner treatment before or during pregnancy is appropriate for your situation.

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