I was planning on getting porcelain veneers in February because I want straight teeth. Last week I found out that I am pregnant. Now I don’t want to introduce any dental chemicals in my body until the baby is delivered. And as I am typing this, I’ll probably have the same concerns while I’m breastfeeding for a year. What chemicals should I be concerned about with porcelain veneers? – Udaya – Highland Park
Udaya,
While in dental school, dentists are taught the following regarding dental treatment during pregnancy.
- First trimester – Avoid introducing chemicals that might harm the baby
- Second trimester – Scheduling routine dental work is okay
- Third trimester – Whenever possible, avoid stress on the mother by limiting care to dental emergencies
Are Porcelain Veneers Safe During Pregnancy?
Only local anesthetic—one of the safest medications that exist—is used when you receive porcelain veneers. Lidocaine is a commonly used local anesthetic that is proven to be safe during pregnancy.
Your concerns are understandable. If you want straighter teeth, but you don’t want porcelain veneers throughout your pregnancy and while you breastfeed, there is an alternative.
Invisalign During Pregnancy
Invisalign will align your teeth in about a year
Invisalign invisible braces are more affordable than porcelain veneers. A typical Invisalign case is completed in about a year. Although porcelain veneers are a faster way to align your teeth, if you will wait until the baby is delivered and breastfeeding is complete, you’ll have 19 months to complete Invisalign treatment.
Your dentist might need to bond small composite tabs to your teeth to help the aligners grip and move them. Other than that, you will wear BPA-free, medical grade aligners to straighten your teeth.
Maintain regular hygiene appointments to keep your gums and teeth healthy during pregnancy. Before you receive Invisalign or any other dental treatment, your dentist will review your medical and dental histories to ensure you’re a candidate. No doubt, you’ll weight the pros and cons before deciding if you’ll proceed with dental treatment.
This post is sponsored by Dr. Rekha Reddy, DDS of Dallas, TX.
