Oakheights Family Dental and Orthodontics

Are Dental Implants Safe During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also means having an additional passenger on board you must take care of at all times. Prioritizing oral health during this period is crucial as it is nearly linked to overall health. This means that issues such as missing teeth still need to be addressed, but vital solutions like affordable dental implants in Dallas are safe during pregnancy. Let’s explore the link between oral health and pregnancy.  

 

Pregnancy can significantly impact your body, including your oral health. Many people are unaware of the effects it can have on the mouth. For instance, frequent morning sickness can damage the enamel of your teeth and raise the risk of cavities. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause inflammation of the gums, leading to a higher risk of gum disease. Dental professionals strongly recommend that pregnant women receive regular preventive care to avoid these potential risks.

 

Dental implants and pregnancy:  If you’re pregnant, some oral care procedures, like tooth restoration, require a different approach. While addressing tooth loss promptly is essential, it must be considered an immediate priority. Dentists usually prefer to delay dental implant surgery until after pregnancy.  If you have a lost tooth, a dental implant is a metal screw that can replace the root of your tooth. This metal screw is attached to the bone in your jaw where your missing tooth’s roots used to be. Usually, a dental implant is made of titanium. A dental implant can support a crown, bridge, or denture. With time, the bone grows around the implant, holding it firmly in place.

 

  • Elective vs. necessary treatment – Although dental implants are an elective procedure, they remain in your best interest for replacing missing teeth. On the other hand, an infected wisdom tooth requires immediate attention.

 

  • Pregnancy Gingivitis: During pregnancy, the risk of gum disease increases due to gum inflammation, which can lead to a higher chance of dental implant failure. 

 

  • Use of Anesthetics: Although local anesthesia is generally safe during pregnancy, implant surgery often requires more substantial anesthesia, which comes with increased risks. Furthermore, certain antibiotics necessary to prevent infection post-surgery are not recommended during pregnancy.

 

  • Stress: Undergoing dental implant surgery could impact your stress levels. This, in turn, may lead to an increase in your blood pressure, a decrease in blood flow to the placenta, and other potential complications. 

 

If you are pregnant and planning to receive dental implants after your pregnancy, there are a few things you can do in the meantime to prepare yourself:

 Quitting bad dental habits like smoking, excessive drinking, chewing on ice, biting your fingernails, or using your teeth as tools is crucial. You should commit to your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Eating a healthy, vitamin-rich diet that supports oral health and drinking plenty of water is also essential. Remember to visit your dentist for regular preventive care and cleanings.

In conclusion, if you are pregnant and unsure about how dental implants may affect you, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist in Dallas. Although replacing missing teeth is essential, it’s most acceptable to hold off on any procedures while pregnant, as it’s better for your little one.

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