Can You Get Dental Implants While Pregnant?

Dental implants are a replacement option for teeth that are missing or can’t be saved. What is so amazing about dental implants is that they completely replace the entire tooth, including the root, giving the prosthetic a secure anchor in the jaw. This allows them to look and function so closely to your natural teeth that you hardly know the difference. 

Maybe you’ve been thinking about getting one or more dental implants, but there have been some big changes in your life that could affect your oral health. Now you’re pregnant and everything is different. Can you still get dental implants while pregnant? Here’s what you should know. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jaw bone. They are made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the bone to form a solid bond strong enough to support a crown. Multiple implants can support a bridge or a full arch denture. 

Considerations During Pregnancy 

There are many aspects of dental implant preparation and placement that could be problematic during pregnancy, such as:

• Anesthesia. Some form of anesthesia is required during the placement of dental implants. Even local anesthesia can enter the bloodstream and travel around your body, possibly through the umbilical cord. Any form of sedation would not be safe during pregnancy, such as IV or oral sedation. 
• Medication. After dental implant placement some medication may be required to manage discomfort, such as over the counter or prescription pain relievers. Many forms of pain medication are not safe during pregnancy, and some pregnant women prefer to avoid medication altogether. 
• Healing. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can slow the body’s healing capabilities. And while in the womb, the baby often siphons nutrients from the mother, potentially interfering with osseointegration, the process of the implant fusing with the bone. Changes in circulation to the oral tissues may also slow the healing process during pregnancy. 
• X-Rays. X-rays are required to properly plan for dental implant placement. Although studies have shown that the small amount of radiation that is required to take dental X-rays is safe, it may be best to avoid it unless absolutely necessary. 
• Infection risk. During pregnancy women are at a higher risk of infection. And if an infection were to occur, the use of antibiotics during pregnancy is not always safe. 

Conclusion

With all of the above taken into consideration, it is best to wait until after your baby is born to get dental implants. The potential risks to the mother and baby are too high for an elective dental procedure to be recommended. Temporary dental prosthetics may be provided during pregnancy until you are able to undergo dental implant surgery. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants and Pregnancy

Is there any part of the dental implant process that can be done during pregnancy? 

You can go ahead and schedule an initial consultation where you and your oral surgeon can discuss the procedure and determine if dental implants would be the best tooth replacement option for you. Then an appointment can be made to start the next steps in the process after your due date. 

Are dental implants worth the wait? 

Dental implants are considered to be the highest quality tooth replacement option in dentistry. They are the gold standard in artificial teeth. Going with a temporary option and waiting until after your baby is born to get dental implants will be well worth it. Once dental implants are placed they can last for the rest of your life. 

Schedule a Consultation With Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park

If you’re interested in dental implants, schedule a consultation now to get the process started. We would be happy to discuss treatment options and temporary solutions until you are ready for dental implant surgery. 

Call 904-269-5195 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.