Can You Have Invisalign When Pregnant?

Exploring dental care when pregnant can bring about a whole range of questions and concerns; what dental care is safe and what procedures can or can’t be done if you are expecting? If you are pregnant and are considering orthodontic treatment like Invisalign, it may be natural to consider whether you can have Invisalign when pregnant. Thankfully, we’re on hand to delve into the considerations and get clarity on whether you can have Invisalign when pregnant.

The importance of good oral health during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of many changes for a woman’s body, and dental health is something that is often overlooked. Maintaining good oral health is crucial during pregnancy, as hormonal changes can affect the gums, making pregnant women more susceptible to gum disease and other dental issues that may need to be addressed. Oral health is integral to overall well-being whether pregnant or not, but addressing dental concerns during pregnancy is essential.

Considering pregnancy can impact oral health, you may be considering whether getting Invisalign whilst pregnant is the right time. First, let’s find out what Invisalign actually is, and how it works.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an extremely popular orthodontic treatment to treat misaligned teeth, using clear, custom-fitted aligners to gradually shift teeth into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, meaning they have minimal impact on day to day life. The convenience and discreet nature of Invisalign make it a popular choice for those looking for orthodontic correction, without the need for fixed braces.

Understanding the safety of Invisalign during pregnancy

The safety of undergoing Invisalign treatment while pregnant is a valid concern for expectant mothers, and while there is limited research that has fully addressed Invisalign and pregnancy, orthodontic professionals generally consider Invisalign to be a safe option for someone who is pregnant. 

Are Invisalign aligners safe in pregnancy?

The clear aligners used for Invisalign treatment are made of medical-grade, BPA-free plastic, which makes them perfectly safe for pregnant women. 

Considerations and precautions for Invisalign during pregnancy

Hormonal changes and the impact on oral health

Pregnancy hormones, particularly progesterone, can affect the ligaments and bones that support the teeth, which could lead to changes in tooth alignment. Invisalign can address these changes, but it’s crucial to communicate any concerns with your orthodontist if you believe there to be any issues.

Morning sickness and its impact on the longevity of aligners 

Morning sickness, a common pregnancy symptom, may affect your comfort wearing aligners. If you experience frequent nausea and vomiting, removing the aligners during these episodes is advisable to prevent discomfort and ensure proper oral hygiene. It is crucial to keep aligners clean to maintain good oral health throughout Invisalign treatment. That being said, you must wear the aligners for 22 hours daily, so to catch up with lost time when you’ve removed the aligners additional wear may be needed before moving to a new aligner.

X-rays and pregnancy

Orthodontic treatments involve X-rays which is not usually done during pregnancy. Safety during treatment is paramount and we need to ensure the foundations of your mouth are solid before we build on them. Part of this process involves taking x-rays and these are crucial before you start your Invisalign treatment.

Aligner discomfort in pregnancy

Pregnancy can bring about changes in gum sensitivity and overall oral comfort. If you experience discomfort while wearing Invisalign, always be sure to communicate this with your orthodontist or dentist. They may make adjustments or provide solutions to enhance your comfort throughout treatment.

Maintain regular dental check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are important during pregnancy. Before starting or continuing Invisalign treatment, it is important that you consult with both your orthodontist and your regular dentist to ensure that your oral health plan aligns with your overall pregnancy care.

So, can you have Invisalign if you are pregnant? The answer is almost always ‘yes’, and while and while Invisalign during pregnancy is generally considered safe, individual circumstances may vary. The decision on whether to start or continue Invisalign treatment during this time should be made after chatting through the options with your orthodontist, dentist and GP, considering factors such as hormonal changes, oral health, and overall well-being.

Just like picking out the perfect baby name, deciding on Invisalign during pregnancy is all about finding that sweet spot. Maintain good communication by chatting with your orthodontist and obstetrician and together, you’ll come up with a plan that will.

Get in touch to start your Smile Story

If you’re looking to straighten your teeth with Invisalign then our team can help. Simply fill in your details and we’ll let you know if you’re a suitable candidate.