Introduction
Over the years there has been an increased demand for orthodontic treatment in women, especially to improve aesthetics. For any woman, pregnancy is an extremely special journey, marked with many changes. It is not uncommon to see women undergoing orthodontic treatment inform their doctor regarding their pregnancy or planning their pregnancy before their orthodontic treatment is completed.1,2
During pregnancy, several hormonal changes occur resulting in increased levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones increase the sensitivity of your gums, leading to inflammation, tenderness, and bleeding of gums. Additionally, during late pregnancy, changes in your saliva composition can lead to enamel erosion and a higher risk of cavities.3,4
Understanding the connection between pregnancy and aligner treatment is key to ensuring that the right decisions are made during this sensitive period. In this guide, we will explore everything expectant mothers should know about aligner treatment, ensuring you and your child are safe while achieving your desired smile.2,3
Is It Safe to Use Aligners During Pregnancy?
Yes, orthodontic treatment using aligners is completely safe during your pregnancy. However, it is important to inform your dentist about your pregnancy so that your orthodontic treatment can be planned to ensure that there is no harm to you or your baby.3
As the organs of the fetus are developing during the first trimester, it is best to avoid any scanning procedures and X-rays during that period. Any exposure to high doses of radiation during this time may increase the risk of any birth defects in the developing baby. Hence, if you are planning to start your orthodontic journey and if you are pregnant, it may be recommended to wait till you are in your second trimester before you begin your treatment.3
It is recommended that you speak to your dentist to ensure your treatment is safe and properly timed. Their guidance will help you to undergo treatment with minimal risk.3
MakeO’s Toothsi has a team of well-experienced orthodontists who design a personalized treatment plan for you based on your specific needs. They offer the best quality treatment at affordable aligner cost in India. Their treatment package starts at just Rs 52,999/- and includes regular consultations with specialists online to ensure your comfort and convenience. So, what are you waiting for - Book your appointment today and start your journey to a healthy and bright smile.5
Adjusting Your Aligner Treatment Plan During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to an increased risk of teeth and gum sensitivity and inflammation. Hence, your pregnancy may require certain adjustments in your treatment plan to ensure the proper fit and comfort of your aligners such as:3,4
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Duration of aligner wear: Due to increased sensitivity or gum inflammation, your dentist might recommend that you wear your aligners for less time to enhance your comfort. Additionally, if you are suffering from morning sickness (nausea and vomiting), your doctor may advise that you remove your aligners during this period to ensure enhanced comfort.
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Regular follow-ups: Regular check-ups are more crucial during pregnancy to monitor the health of your gums and teeth. Your dentist may ask you to visit the clinic more often to check for any signs of gum inflammation, increased sensitivity, or other oral health issues that can be addressed immediately.
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Aligner adjustments: Your pregnancy may cause noticeable changes in your gums, causing an ill fit of your aligners. In these cases, your doctor may make minor adjustments to your aligners or even provide new trays to ensure they fit correctly and comfortably.
It is important to communicate with your dental specialist to ensure that your treatment remains safe yet effective.
Tips for Oral Care while using Aligners during Pregnancy
As several hormonal changes occur during pregnancy, oral hygiene becomes more challenging. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and follow these tips to ensure good oral care during pregnancy.6
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Proper Oral Hygiene Habits: Brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled brush and flossing regularly are recommended to keep your teeth free of bacteria. Compared to traditional braces, aligners can easily be removed while eating, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene maintenance.
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Use of Mouthwash: Adding mouthwash into your oral care routine helps to remove debris and plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
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Aligner Cleanliness: Keeping your aligners clean is important to prevent infections and maintain their appearance and effectiveness. You can rinse your aligners thoroughly with lukewarm water and clean them using a nonabrasive toothpaste whenever they are removed.
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Diet Management: Avoiding sugary foods and drinks is essential as these can lead to plaque buildup on your teeth which can further lead to gum inflammation and damage, affecting aligner treatment progress.
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Consistent Aligner Wear: Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, wearing your aligners for 22 hours daily is mandatory for desired results. You should only remove your aligners while eating and brushing. If you need to remove your aligners more frequently due to issues like morning sickness, ensure to wear them at all other times for effective treatment.
By following these tips, you can maintain good oral hygiene and keep your aligner treatment effective throughout your pregnancy.3,4
Conclusion
Though hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause gum inflammation, sensitivity, and enamel erosion, these can be easily managed by following a strict oral care routine. Aligner treatment can be safely done but diligent care and attention must be given. You can ensure the desired treatment results while keeping yourself and the baby safe by getting regular checkups, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and making necessary aligner adjustments.
It is recommended that you follow your doctor’s advice so that you can confidently achieve a brighter smile while safeguarding the well-being of your baby.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is based on expert insights into aligner treatment during pregnancy. It should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding orthodontic care during pregnancy.
Neither the publisher nor its distribution partners endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. The source company is responsible for the content of this article. For further inquiries, please contact them directly.
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Source: Story.KISSPR.com
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