Missing teeth can affect many areas of your life. It not only diminishes your confidence and comfortability to freely smile, but it impacts your oral health. Tooth loss can also lead to issues like bite misalignment, bone loss in your jaw, and an increased risk of gum disease. That is why it is often recommended to restore your teeth with dental implants as soon as possible. But what if you are pregnant? Here’s what to know about dental implants and expecting a little one!
Dental Work and Pregnancy
Expecting a baby is an exciting time in life! As your baby bump grows, you want to do everything you can to keep you and your little one healthy. Part of your well-being is your dental health. Here are the best recommendations for dental work and pregnancy:
Preventive Care
Maintaining your oral health is incredibly important; it not only protects your mouth but helps your overall well-being. This is why visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning—even while you are pregnant– is vital to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Dental Association both encourage pregnant women to receive preventive dental care. Not only will it keep your pearly whites in top condition, but any tooth decay or infections can also be addressed before it progresses any further. Your health contributes to the health of your growing baby!
Elective Procedures
Cavities or gum infections should be treated while you are pregnant since the benefits outweigh the risks. They can become worse and impact the baby. Elective procedures, like dental implants, are not essential. Although they can be performed after the first trimester, most oral surgeons prefer to wait until after the baby is born.
Regarding dental implants, there isn’t much risk when it comes to waiting. The complications from missing teeth take time to happen so your smile won’t be affected during the months of pregnancy. On the other hand, there are changes that occur in oral health during pregnancy that can increase the risk of dental implant failure, such as:
- Various fluctuations in the immune system
- Possible increase in inflammation of the gums
- Higher risk of possible infection
Having a procedure increases the risk of infection and many prescription antibiotics and over-the-counter medications are also off the table during pregnancy. No one wants any extra discomfort, especially as your body is already going through so many changes!
What Can You Do While You Wait to Restore Your Smile?
You can always begin the process of replacing your missing tooth by having a consultation with your dentist to discuss the implant process. A personalized plan can be made to prepare to restore your teeth when you are no longer pregnant. Your dentist can also complete your smile with temporary restorations until you can undergo dental implant surgery. And, of course, maintaining a solid at-home dental routine all throughout your pregnancy will ensure your pearly whites stay in their best condition.
The health of you and your baby is your dentist’s top priority. With their guidance, your smile can be restored in due time!
About the Practice
Taylor Choice Dental is eager to help you keep you and your family’s smiles whole and healthy! Their team of dentists offers a full range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency care. With a focus on your safety, they use customized plans and advanced dental technology to keep your oral health in its best condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (737) 758-3676.