Invisalign is a popular dental treatment that many people choose for its convenience and cosmetic benefits. But what happens if you become pregnant during Invisalign treatment? Is it safe to continue using Invisalign during pregnancy? In this article, we’ll take a look at the safety of Invisalign during pregnancy and other things you should consider if you would like to start teeth treatment with Invisalign while pregnant.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces, and many people choose Invisalign for its cosmetic benefits. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible when worn, so they are a popular choice for adults who want to achieve straighter teeth for the first time, or want to return to treatment after having braces as a teen.
Can I have Invisalign while pregnant?
The short answer is yes, you can have Invisalign while pregnant. Invisalign treatment can continue if you become pregnant, but you shouldn’t start treatment while pregnant. This is because you will have to undergo scans which could be harmful to the baby. But if you have already started treatment, there should be no reason you cannot continue.
In general, you should schedule your dental visits for the first two trimesters. This is because it can be uncomfortable to lie on your back for a long time. This is why your dentist will encourage you to have treatments during your second trimester, particularly if they are longer treatments.
Since Invisalign requires fewer trips to the dentist, it is typically easier to manage during pregnancy.
Morning sickness and Invisalign
One of the biggest problems women will face with pregnancy and Invisalign treatment is the occurrence of morning sickness. If you experience morning sickness, you should remove your aligners and keep them in a safe place. You will need to brush your teeth and clean your aligners before replacing them.
Removing your aligners so often can be uncomfortable, so you may want to pause your treatment until the morning sickness has passed. You should always speak to your dentist if you need to pause your treatment, as it could change the progression of your treatment plan.
Can I have braces during pregnancy?
Just like Invisalign, you should be fine to continue orthodontic treatment if you get pregnant. However, you should delay the start of your treatment if you are pregnant. You won’t be able to have scans or X-rays while you are pregnant, and these are required in order to start treatment.
What else should I consider when pregnant and Invisalign?
As your baby grows, your body will change. This can put additional stress on your teeth and gums, which could impact the Invisalign treatment. You may find that you need to wear your aligners for longer or shorter periods of time as your pregnancy progresses.
Discomfort is also a consideration. If you are already uncomfortable because of other aspects of your pregnancy, you might not want to add to your discomfort with braces or aligners. Swollen gums are common during pregnancy, which can make treatment more uncomfortable.
Oral health during pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause issues with your oral health, which is why it is so important to continue to attend dental checkups. Your gums can swell and become irritated, and you’re also at higher risk of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if not treated.
Oral health during pregnancy is incredibly important, as poor oral health has been linked to problems with pregnancy. Studies have found that gum disease can lead to low birth weight and preterm birth.
If you have any questions about oral health, Invisalign and pregnancy, we encourage you to book an appointment with the Sloan Dental team today. We can help you create a treatment plan that works for you and your baby.
