There is nothing more sacred and important than growing a human life, therefore it’s understandable that precautions need to be taken when undergoing any sort of procedure whilst pregnant. However, if you have been considering braces or are receiving orthodontic treatment and just found out you’re expecting it will hopefully bring a sigh of relief to know that you can go ahead and continue to invest in your smile.
The important point to consider here is communication with your orthodontist so they can adjust their treatment as necessary. Let’s take a look at how pregnancy affects your teeth and what you can do to ensure their strength throughout.
How Does Pregnancy Affect Our Teeth?
Throughout pregnancy, your body will increase its hormone levels which can impact your risk of oral health problems. Cavities may be more prominent due to cravings for sugary foods, and lack of oral hygiene due to tiredness, also the acid produced during morning sickness can strip the teeth of the enamel, making them more susceptible to damage. Your risk of gingivitis is also increased due to pregnancy hormones and particularly the increase in progesterone and oestrogen can temporarily loosen the tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place, potentially resulting in the loss of teeth.
This is why communication with your orthodontist is vital for them to be able to tailor your treatment and possibly schedule appointments more regularly. It’s also advisable for regular visits to the dental hygienist to ensure your gum health is in the best shape as pregnancy can cause inflammation in the gums, which can lead to swelling and bleeding.
Is it Possible to Go Through Orthodontic Treatments Whilst Pregnant?
In short, yes, it is possible to undergo braces treatment while pregnant as basic orthodontic treatment won’t put any stress on a developing foetus. If braces are something you have been planning for a while it can be disheartening to think about putting your life on hold whilst you wait for your little bundle to arrive but ensuring that you communicate as openly as possible to your orthodontist should mean that you don’t have to.
Considerations for Braces Whilst Pregnant
There are many extras that come along with orthodontic treatment that need to be thought about such as having x-rays taken or having to sit in a chair for any length of time, both of which could put stress on you or your baby. Pregnant women tend to experience more pain during orthodontic treatment also as nerve sensitivity increases as well as increased inflammation in the gums.
Maintain a Nutritious Diet.
A high-protein diet is best as it is supportive of mother and baby, however, an increased intake of meat is not gentle on our teeth and braces. Chewy foods can break the brackets and wires and are best avoided, these include:
- Chewy sweets or dried fruits.
- Crunchy crisps, nuts, apples, and raw carrot sticks.
- Tough crusty bread, thick pizza crusts and steak.
- Brittle popcorn, seeds, or hard-boiled sweets.
- Ice- you may be tempted to chew on ice to relieve any discomfort from swollen gums in pregnancy, but this could break your brackets.
There are still great sources of protein provided from other food groups such as eggs, chicken breast, cheese, yoghurt, and fish ensuring they are well cooked, as well as lentils, beans, and tofu. Fruits and vegetables can be consumed for vitamins and minerals ensuring they are well-cooked and won’t cause damage to the braces.
Keep up With Excellent Oral Hygiene.
Oral hygiene is of great importance both when pregnant and whilst wearing braces. Food particles can get stuck in your braces and increase bacteria build up so cleaning regularly, with orthodontic tools is essential to keep your gums healthy. Morning sickness can also be an issue, so your teeth must be brushed immediately afterwards.
Your orthodontist will take the time to show you how to properly brush your teeth with your braces fitted and how to maintain hygiene throughout the day with various orthodontic tools.
Speak to a Specialist Orthodontist in Oldham Today.
At Oldham Orthodontics, our team of orthodontists have undergone extensive training, and we utilise the latest technology advances, along with the latest in digital imaging to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. So, if you’re pregnant and wish to seek orthodontic treatment, we are fully equipped here at your trusted orthodontist in Oldham to welcome you on your orthodontic journey.
Contact us today if you would like to book or discuss an initial free consultation to find out more about the treatments available.