Can I Get A Teeth Whitening Treatment While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?

Can I Get A Teeth Whitening Treatment While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding? 

If you’re pregnant or you’re breastfeeding your new baby, you may be wondering if it’s safe to have your teeth whitened. There are quite a few myths and misconceptions about the safety of teeth whitening for pregnant and nursing mothers. So in this blog from Nashoba Valley Dental, we’ll discuss what you need to know about the safety of teeth whitening treatment if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Let’s get started.

Teeth Whitening Is Safe For Pregnant Women, But Is Not Usually Recommended 

There are currently no studies that show that teeth whitening has negative effects on pregnant women, or on their children. Since there appear to be no major side effects, it can be assumed that teeth whitening is safe for pregnant women. If you are pregnant and wish to have your teeth whitened, you and your baby will be safe.

However, the ADA (American Dental Association) recommends that dentists “consider recommending that teeth whitening be deferred during pregnancy,” and most dentists follow this recommendation, and don’t recommend whitening for pregnant women.

Why not? The main reason is that pregnancy can cause a lot of oral health changes in women, and this can make teeth whitening impractical, or complicate the process. Some of these changes include:

• Loosening of the teeth due to high levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body
• A higher risk of tooth erosion and demineralization due to morning sickness, which causes stomach acid to contact the teeth
• A higher risk of cavities and gum disease due to hormonal changes, changes in oral care, and pregnancy-related food cravings that lead to higher levels of plaque and oral bacteria
  

While it is possible to have your teeth whitened while pregnant, most dentists advise women to avoid non-essential dental procedures until they have delivered their child. This helps minimize complications, and ensures the safety of your and your child. 

Teeth Whitening Is Also Safe If You’re Breastfeeding 

So, what about after you’ve delivered your baby and you’ve started breastfeeding? We’ve got good news! It’s totally safe to have your teeth whitened if you are breastfeeding. There are no risks to you or your child, and the chemicals used to whiten your teeth will not affect your breast milk in any way.

If you are interested in having your teeth whitened after breastfeeding in Shirley, Groton or Lunenburg, take-home whitening treatment from Nashoba Valley Dental is a great option. Dr. Annese will create a set of custom whitening trays that you can use to whiten your teeth on your own schedule, making your treatment more convenient. 

Contact Nashoba Valley Dental Now To Schedule Your Cosmetic Consultation 

Teeth whitening is safe for pregnant mothers, but is not usually recommended due to the other oral health complications that may be present during pregnancy. It’s also 100% safe for nursing mothers. So if you’d like to learn more, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment at Nashoba Valley Dental with Dr. Matthew Annese. At your consultation, he will discuss your options for cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening. Get started now by contacting us online, or by giving us a call at (978) 425-9088.