If you’re expecting, you don’t want your missing teeth to be the focal point of your future family photos. Dental implants are the most reliable solution to treat tooth loss. However, are they safe for pregnant women? You must wait until after the birth of your child before you can have your placement surgery, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get the process started. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to replace your lost teeth with dental implants.
Dental Care and Pregnancy
Contrary to various rumors, dental care is not only safe for pregnant women, but it’s also recommended. Pregnancy can increase your risk of certain dental issues, like gum disease. Not only can the infection wreak havoc on your oral health, but it has also been linked to preterm delivery and low birth weights. Therefore, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
Preventive care is safe during pregnancy. You may need to wait until you’re in the second or third trimester if you require dental work. Major treatments are not suitable for expectant mothers because medications may be necessary that can harm your unborn child, which is why you won’t be able to have your placement surgery while pregnant.
Dental Implants and Pregnancy
A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it mimics both the tooth root and the crown. Replacing a tooth with a dental implant requires a multi-step treatment process, which involves oral surgery. Sedation or anesthesia will need to have an implant in your jawbone. As a result, most dentists will not perform the procedure until after delivering your child.
In addition, pregnancy can increase the risk of dental implant failure. Gum disease and diabetes can coincide with pregnancy, which can affect your body’s ability to heal and fight infections. This can compromise the success of your procedure.
Get the Process Started
Although you’ll need to wait until after your baby arrives to have your placement surgery, you can get the process started now. You can schedule your consultation to ensure dental implants are right for you. Your implant dentist will create a personalized treatment plan to replace your missing teeth. It’s not unusual to require a little prep work, like gum disease treatment. Basic dental work is safe during pregnancy, so you can ensure your mouth is healthy and ready for your placement surgery once your bundle of joy is here.
After you’ve recovered from delivering, you can move forward with your placement surgery. Let your dentist know if you are nursing to ensure the safety of your baby.
About Dr. Tarangini Suggala
Dr. Suggala earned her dental degree at The Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has completed additional education in dental implants, surgical dentistry, and many other specialties. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (972) 845-8847.