Can I Have Invisalign While Pregnant?

Pregnancy and motherhood are without a doubt remarkable, life-altering moments. Though it’s inevitable for expecting moms to encounter many physical and emotional changes – which can signal bouts of worries when their own health is considered. 

Keeping up with general wellness visits and doctor’s appointments are especially important for pregnant women. This truly means from head to toe. Therefore, even routine dental exams shouldn’t get pushed to the wayside. 

What about pursuing a smile makeover? Should expectant moms proceed with clear aligner treatment or wait until after baby comes along?

This Post Will Cover: 

1) Whether it’s safe to straighten your teeth with Invisalign during pregnancy  

2) What neglected oral care can mean for pregnant women

3) How to manage pregnancy cravings, food aversions, and morning sickness throughout a clear aligner program 

Let’s dive in. 

Pregnant Women Can Straighten Their Teeth With Invisalign, But X-Ray Concerns Remain 

A healthy, radiant smile is achievable for women who are pregnant through the use of clear aligners. Brands like Invisalign offer solutions for straighter teeth and an aligned bite in as little as six months.  

The process isn't invasive and clear aligner candidates often notice a positive impact on their oral hygiene. Despite all of the perks, pregnant women should get cleared to have dental X-rays taken. This is a mandatory part of the clear aligner method and future X-rays are needed to track milestone progress. 

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) states that non-abdominal X-ray examinations pose little risk to an unborn baby, yet speaking first to a medical professional is encouraged.  

Rates of Gingivitis Are Relatively High Among Pregnant Women 

Not all pregnant women encounter issues with cavities, gum disease or or gum recession. However, CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) research shows that roughly 75% of this group experiences issues with gingivitis. 

Increased blood flow, fluctuations in estrogen levels, and the potential loss of bone mineral density can have a natural impact on a pregnant woman’s oral health. 

By seeing a dentist every six months and regularly brushing/flossing, those who are pregnant are less likely to need urgent periodontal care. 

Top Food Priorities for Pregnant Women With Invisalign 

Pregnancy cravings and hormonally-driven food aversions are no joke. Consuming only excessively sweet, salty, and highly processed ingredients can also have a negative toll on dental plaque and tooth erosion. Managing these cravings with balanced meals and snacks is key. 

Foods that are high in the following will keep someone who is pregnant full faster and more satiated for extended periods of time. 

Calcium

• Almonds
• Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Sesame

Vitamin C

• Broccoli
• Citrus
• Cucumber 

Iron 

• Beef
• Lentils/Seeds
• Spinach

Folate (Folic Acid)

• Asparagus 
• Brewer’s Yeast
• Fennel

Protein 

• Beans and Legumes
• Eggs
• Salmon

Fiber  

• Blueberries
• Chickpeas
• Coconut

Additionally, complex carbohydrates (whole grains, fruits and vegetables) provide energy and can alleviate morning sickness for those who are pregnant. 

While eating small frequent meals throughout the day is a healthy option for expectant mothers, keeping one’s clear aligners clean and free of food residue are significant in maintaining excellent oral hygiene. 

Recap 

If you’re pregnant or are planning to straighten your teeth with clear aligners during your pregnancy, there are a few things you should consider. 

X-Rays

Cosmetic dentists and orthodontists require dental X-rays from their clear aligner candidates in order to work on an individualized treatment plan. Although the vast majority of licensed professionals have determined that low contact with radiation emissions isn’t a health risk, you should keep your provider informed and follow all necessary safety precautions. 

Eating Schedules 

A nutrient-rich diet and sufficient food intake are imperative for the health of mom and baby. A pregnant woman’s necessary food/fluid intake levels will vary, yet skipping meals and intermittent fasting schedules aren’t advised. Meal prep and go grocery shopping for the entire week, when possible.  

Clear Aligners Remain A Commitment, Postpartum

Once one is finished with their temporary trays, their cosmetic dentist or orthodontist will ask that they continue to wear a permanent clear aligner retainer during the day and night (for an average of 4-6 months) before transitioning to an evening only treatment plan. 

Adjusting to this new normal and can feel exhausting and overwhelming. However, mothers in the postpartum period must wear their aligners for a permanent, straighter smile. They can take comfort in knowing they've made a monumental decision to take better care of their teeth using a system that's proven to last for a lifetime.