If you are pregnant, you deserve to be congratulated on your incoming bundle of joy! You may be eager to welcome your precious new family member, and you may want to do so with a healthy and complete smile. Perhaps you are thinking about getting dental implants to replace lost teeth. But is the dental implant procedure safe during pregnancy? This blog post explains why it would be best to wait until after you give birth.
Risks Associated with Sedation
Sedation is typically used during the dental implant surgery to ensure your comfort and safety. However, many sedatives are not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential risks they pose to a developing baby. These substances can affect fetal development and may increase the likelihood of complications.
Concerns About Dental Imaging
Dental implant planning often involves advanced imaging techniques, such as X-rays or CBCT scans, to evaluate your jawbone and surrounding tissue. Though modern imaging tools emit minimal radiation, there is still a very small risk associated with exposing your baby to radiation during pregnancy. It may be best to avoid such imaging techniques unless they are urgently required.
Pain Relievers May Not Be Suitable
Following dental implant surgery, pain management is an essential part of recovery. Many commonly prescribed pain relievers, including certain anti-inflammatory medications, may not be safe for use during pregnancy. These medications can potentially affect fetal development or contribute to other complications. By postponing your treatment, you will have access to a wider range of pain management options, allowing for a smoother and safer healing process.
Oral Health Changes During Pregnancy
As a pregnant individual, you are at an increased risk of certain oral health problems, such as pregnancy gingivitis, that could interfere with the dental implant process. Such risks should return to normal levels after you give birth.
Consult With Your Dentist During Pregnancy
Although dental implant treatment should wait until after pregnancy, you can still take proactive steps toward restoring your smile. During your pregnancy, you can consult with your dentist about tooth replacement options and begin planning for your treatment. They can also help you maintain your oral health throughout your pregnancy so you can undergo tooth replacement when the time is right. Hopefully, you will have a complete, confident, and beautifully healthy smile before you know it!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Erin Page and Wanda Saldaña are pleased to serve patients from throughout the Capital District and beyond. Under their expert leadership, our team offers comprehensive dental implant services. If you are interested in replacing your lost teeth, we would be pleased to answer your questions and help you have realistic expectations for the journey that awaits you. Contact Capital Smiles in Schenectady at 518-374-0317.