Is Teeth Whitening Safe While Pregnant?

Having a bright smile and healthy teeth and gums is important for your overall physical and emotional health. During pregnancy, your dental care also becomes a part of your prenatal care. For example, studies show that gum disease during pregnancy may contribute to premature birth that leads to a baby’s health problems throughout their life. Because of these concerns, you may ask if whitening your teeth is safe while pregnant. Learn more below about oral health and teeth whitening while pregnant or breastfeeding.

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How Does Pregnancy Affect Oral Health?

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause changes throughout your body, including your teeth and gums. As a result, about three out of four pregnant women have gum disease, known as gingivitis, that causes swollen and red gums that bleed easily. In addition, the increased acidity caused by pregnancy hormones increases the risk of cavities. Gum disease and cavities are caused by an increase in bacteria and plaque, resulting in tooth discoloration.

Other effects of pregnancy on oral health include:

  • Temporarily loose teeth due to higher levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy.

  • Higher risk of advanced gum disease known as periodontitis.

  • Erosion of tooth enamel if you experience frequent vomiting from morning sickness.

  • Occurrence of a pregnancy tumor or pyogenic granuloma.

  • Mouth sores due to increased stress, hormonal changes, and vitamin deficiencies.

What Can Cause Tooth Discoloration While Pregnant?

Pregnancy causes increased acidity in your mouth which worsens the usual causes of tooth discoloration. To neutralize this acidity, you can 

  • Chew sugarless gum that contains Xylitol.

  • Consume less acidic foods and beverages. 

  • Eat a high-fiber diet.  

  • Stay well hydrated during the day.

Other steps to help prevent tooth staining include:

  • Maintaining excellent oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing.

  • Avoiding coffee, tea, and sugary drinks.

  • Avoid foods such as berries, tomato sauces, beets, and curry.

  • Eat foods that brighten your smile, such as apples, broccoli, and strawberries.

  • Keep your regularly scheduled dental exams and professional teeth cleaning appointments.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe During Pregnancy?

Expectant mothers are concerned about their health and the health of their babies. For this reason, physicians are cautious about the ingestion and exposure to many drugs and chemicals. Although scientific research clearly warns about many of these, there is no evidence that teeth whitening causes harm. Nevertheless, without confirming its safety, the American Dental Association recommends delaying teeth whitening during pregnancy. 

In addition to the American Dental Association’s recommendation, most dentists advise pregnant women to avoid all non-essential dental procedures until they deliver their baby. Teeth whitening certainly falls into this category and would be made less effective due to the likelihood of some gum inflammation, the issues caused by morning sickness, and the increased risk of tooth decay.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe While Breastfeeding?

You may find the answer to teeth whitening during breastfeeding less clear than during pregnancy. The American Dental Association recommends deferring treatment during pregnancy and advises that it is still questionable during breastfeeding. Discuss this with Trident General Dentistry if you have questions or concerns about bleaching your teeth while breastfeeding.

Can I Use Whitestrips While Pregnant?

Crest acknowledges that no studies show that Crest Whitestrips cause harm while pregnant or nursing. However, they stop short of recommending their use and instead advise women to discuss this with their doctor. 

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We understand the many concerns pregnant women have about maintaining healthy teeth and gums during pregnancy. Make an appointment with Trident General Dentistry to discuss these concerns and learn how to have a bright smile and optimal oral health while pregnant.

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