Invisalign While Pregnant – What Dentists Say

Pregnancy is an exciting time but there’s also a lot going on. Your tummy’s growing, your hormones are all over the place, and you’ve probably got a million different things going on in your head. If you haven’t already got enough to handle, one question that may be playing on your mind is: “Can I get Invisalign while pregnant?”

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment during your pregnancy or you’ve already started your treatment, you may be concerned about its safety and effectiveness. Is it safe to straighten teeth when you’re expecting a baby? Will the treatment still give me the results I’m hoping for?”  What do dentists say about using Invisalign during pregnancy? Let’s explore expert opinions and things you need to know. First things first:

Is Invisalign safe during pregnancy?

Most dentists will tell you that Invisalign is perfectly safe to use when you’re pregnant provided it’s managed properly.

Invisalign clear aligners are fashioned from BPA-free plastic - no toxic chemicals and no risks to your baby.

However, there are a few things to bear in mind to ensure your Invisalign journey runs smoothly.

Pregnancy can make you feel incredibly tired, if not exhausted, particularly during the first semester. Increased levels of progesterone can cause you to feel sleepy while emotional changes may also decrease your energy levels. Just brushing your teeth can feel like a marathon. Pregnancy can also have surprising effects on your oral health, including:

Gum inflammation and increased sensitivity – Pregnancy hormones can cause your gums to feel sensitive and more prone to inflammation. This can make aligners feel uncomfortable at times.

Higher risk of cavities - Studies show an increased risk of periodontitis (gum disease) and cavities during pregnancy ranging from 30% to 100%. It’s vital to maintain good oral hygiene both before and during pregnancy.

How to handle the above?

• Brush your teeth and gums gently but thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol to lower bacteria levels.
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups.

Bone and tooth movement – Spikes in estrogen and progesterone levels can temporarily loosen the ligaments and bones supporting your teeth, which could slightly affect how your teeth respond to Invisalign treatment when you’re pregnant.

Communicate with your dentist

If you’re pregnant or trying for a baby tell your dentist or orthodontist. They can make adjustments to your treatment plan to help you feel more comfortable. For example:

• Omitting unnecessary X-rays
• Giving you extra tips on managing sensitivity and bleeding
• Adjusting your aligner schedule if needs be

Are X-rays necessary during Invisalign treatment?

Dental X-rays are generally required before starting Invisalign, but if you’re already pregnant most dentists will avoid them wherever possible. While dental X-rays emit an extremely low level of radiation, some women prefer to avoid them during the first trimester. That said, your dentist may be able to use a safer alternative like photographs or digital scans which are completely safe and work equally as well.

So now you know the things to bear in mind when considering Invisalign while pregnant here’s how using Invisalign while pregnant can be a good thing.

Why Invisalign is a great option for a pregnant woman

• It’s easier to maintain good oral hygiene with removable clear aligners (which is especially important during pregnancy).
• Invisalign is non-invasive and won’t disrupt your prenatal care.
• Treatment can be paused if necessary without causing any significant impact in the long term.

What about morning sickness?

Nausea and vomiting are common in pregnancy and when they strike it can impact your oral health and your aligners. Adjustments to your routine are essential to stay on track with your Invisalign treatment.

Here are some quick tips( after vomiting):

• Rinse your mouth immediately with water or alcohol-free mouthwash to neutralize acids.
• Rinse your aligners in lukewarm water and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush to remove all traces of bacteria.
• Wait for 30 minutes before brushing your teeth since acid can soften enamel.
• As an alternative to mouthwash, use your fingers to gently rub a small amount of fluoride toothpaste on your teeth and then rinse thoroughly.
• Sip water all day to stay hydrated and prevent acid build-up.

These small adjustments will help keep your oral health and aligners in good shape, especially as you enter the second trimester when morning sickness is usually at its worst.

If you're struggling with nausea and finding it difficult to remove and reinsert your aligners for meals, your dentist may recommend temporarily pausing treatment. In the meantime, you might be advised to wear your retainers only at night. Your dentist will monitor your progress every few weeks and determine when you're ready to resume wearing your aligners for the full 22 hours per day.

Invisalign flexibility is one of the perks for mums-to-be!

When’s the best time to start Invisalign during pregnancy?

Timing matters when you’re pregnant which is why we recommend starting Invisalign during the second trimester. Why?

• Dental care can be tough during the first trimester as that’s when pregnant women are most likely to experience fatigue and morning sickness.
• By the third trimester, you’re likely to find sitting uncomfortable during longer appointments.

If you’ve recently learned that you’re pregnant and you’ve already begun your Invisalign treatment, don’t worry. Just let your dentist know and they can make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Final thoughts – Should you get Invisalign while pregnant?

Ultimately, the decision to get pregnant when using Invisalign is a personal one. Assuming your pregnancy is running smoothly and your dentist approves, there’s no reason to delay treatment. However, if you’re concerned about hormonal changes affecting your gums and worried about coping with nausea, then you might be better off waiting until your baby arrives. Wherever you’re at with your pregnancy, maintaining good oral health is essential for you and your baby.

Ready to start your Invisalign journey?

At Chesterfield Dentistry, we understand the unique needs of pregnant patients and can help you determine if Invisalign is right for you. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your options and ensure a healthy, beautiful smile—both during and after pregnancy!

Call us today at 314-936-3621 or use our online booking service.