Pregnancy and Dentistry
Updated guidance on oral health, whitening, and Invisalign care during pregnancy.
Routine dental care during pregnancy
- Cleanings and exams are safe in every trimester.
- Address decay, infection, or urgent issues promptly.
- Use gentle positioning and shorter visits if nausea is present.
Share your due date and medications at each visit.
X-rays, local anesthesia, and materials used
- Digital X-rays with apron and thyroid collar are safe when needed.
- Lidocaine or articaine are commonly used in standard doses.
- We use G-ænial Universal Flo and RelyX Unicem when indicated.
- Acetaminophen and selected antibiotics can be used under OB guidance.
Whitening and bleaching safety during pregnancy
- KöR and Opalescence advise postponing in office and at home bleaching until after delivery and breastfeeding.
- Focus on strength during pregnancy with prescription fluoride or custom MI Paste trays.
- We can scan now for future custom trays and start whitening postpartum.
Polishing and stain removal can safely freshen the smile meanwhile.
Morning sickness and enamel protection
- After vomiting, rinse with water or a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water.
- Do not brush right away. Wait 30 minutes, then brush with a soft brush and fluoride paste.
- During frequent sickness, use custom MI Paste or fluoride gel trays to reduce erosion and sensitivity.
Invisalign and orthodontic considerations
- Aligners are BPA free, latex free, and phthalate free.
- Use gentle, supervised movement. Keep hygiene excellent to avoid inflammation.
- Clean daily with tablets like Polident. Rinse after sickness before reinserting.
Home care and when to call the dentist
- Brush twice daily with fluoride. Clean between teeth daily.
- Rinse with water after acidic foods or sickness.
- Call for swelling, pain, or persistent bleeding.