Braces in pregnancy common and uncommon questions and answers
Q: I’m Scheduled for Braces But Pregnant – Is it Safe to Get Braces?
A: Yes, it is safe to get braces and wear braces throughout pregnancy. This includes metal braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign, and more.
Q: Should I Notify the Orthodontist About My Pregnancy?
A: Yes, it is a good idea to notify your dentist about your pregnancy. It is not considered safe for pregnant women to undergo X-rays, and you’ll want to make sure your orthodontist knows that they’ll need to avoid X-rays with your procedure.
Q: Are There Any Other Issues with Braces I Need to Consider?
A: There are a few. Pregnant women may have gums that are more sensitive, and that can mean that you may experience greater discomfort – especially with metal braces. Although nearly every orthodontic procedure is safe, there may be considerations your orthodontist will also want to make to ensure you’re comfortable during your pregnancy.
Q: Will Metal Braces Cause Any Toxicity Issues?
A: There are no known toxicity issues related to metal braces or ceramic braces. The metal used is stainless steel, which is not known to be toxic to the body, and definitely not the baby.
Q: I Swallowed a Metal Bracket! Will My Baby Be Safe?
A: Swallowing metal brackets is uncommon, and if you’re ever concerned about the safety of your baby at any trimester, it is a good idea to talk to your OBGYN. But a small piece of metal is unlikely to harm your baby. Your digestive tract is not directly connected to the placenta.
Considering Pregnancy and Braces
Whether you planned your braces first or you recently had a doctor’s appointment and they recommended you fix your smile, braces during pregnancy are perfectly safe. There are some considerations that need to be made – such as avoiding X-rays and the chances of discomfort due to sensitive gums – but you and your Orthodontist will find ways to make your braces more comfortable, and rest assured that the braces themselves should be perfectly safe for the baby.