Can You Get Dental Implants While Pregnant?

Although dental implant surgery is considered low-risk, it is also deemed an elective surgery. As such, organizations such as the National Institute for Health and the Centers for Disease Control, recommend postponing elective surgery until after the baby is born. However, maintaining good oral health while pregnant is crucial. To that end, all preventative, diagnostic, and restorative dental treatments are safe. In fact, maintaining good oral health is extremely important as a variety of tooth and gum conditions may arise more frequently during pregnancy.

Why Dental Implants Are Not Recommended During Pregnancy

Studies haven’t specifically linked dental implant surgery to pregnancy complications. However, all surgeries, even those performed on an outpatient basis, such as dental implants carry some risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. Therefore, it is best to wait until at least six weeks postpartum for any type of elective surgery. 

Preventative and Restorative Dental Care During Pregnancy is Essential

Although cosmetic dental treatments should be postponed during pregnancy, other dental care and procedures are not only safe but essential. A variety of changes occur during pregnancy that can negatively impact oral health.

Oral health conditions that are more common during pregnancy, include:

• Gingivitis (gum disease) 

Gum disease is common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes that exacerbate how the gum tissue reacts to bacteria. Non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing treat gingivitis and are safe during pregnancy. 

• Cavities

Changes in diet, due to increased hunger or pregnancy cravings can lead to the development of cavities. Likewise, vomiting due to morning sickness can cause acid production to increase, damaging the teeth. Less than-ideal oral hygiene due to nausea during pregnancy also contributes to the development of cavities. Non-invasive restorative treatments such as dental fillings are safe during pregnancy 

• Enamel Erosion

Erosion of the enamel of the teeth due to morning sickness-induced vomiting may be more common during pregnancy. Enamel erosion during pregnancy may also stem from acid reflux (GERD), wherein stomach acid erodes tooth enamel. According to the National Institutes of Health, GERD may affect up to 80% of pregnancies. Your dentist will provide you with tips for maintaining enamel during pregnancy which may include the application of a fluoride varnish or gel. 

• Periodontitis

The most severe form of gum disease is called periodontitis. Unfortunately, untreated periodontitis during pregnancy has been shown through myriad studies to contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Severe gum disease is linked to low birth weight, preterm and premature birth, and pre-eclampsia.  A variety of safe periodontal treatments can be provided by your dentist to treat severe gum disease during pregnancy. 

Maintaining Good Oral Health During Pregnancy

To maintain good oral health during pregnancy, brush your teeth twice daily for a full two minutes, and floss your teeth daily. Maintain all regularly scheduled dental exams and cleanings. If you haven’t had a dental exam or cleaning in more than six months, it’s wise to schedule one once you know that you’re pregnant.

Book an Oral Health Exam and Cleaning in Albuquerque

Dr. Brian K. Dennis is a highly esteemed and experienced dentist who provides preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. To book an appointment, call 505-292-1051 or message us. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive a dental crown during pregnancy?

Yes. If your dental crown becomes loose, or your dentist has prescribed a crown to protect your natural tooth, it is safe to have this restorative dental treatment during pregnancy.

Are dental X-rays safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Digital dental X-rays emit far less radiation than traditional X-rays.  Digital X-rays of your mouth are safe during pregnancy.