The situation you are currently experiencing is a unique one. Not only are you pregnant, but you are also missing a few teeth. Because the necessity of replacing these pearly whites is essential, you may wonder if dental implants during pregnancy in Phoenix are even possible. Before you succumb to defeat believing a partial denture or dental bridge is the best you can get, or before you get too excited about the idea of a permanent smile again, a local dentist explains whether or not you should move forward or wait to receive permanent prosthetics to restore your smile.
Is It Safe to Receive Dental Implants While Pregnant?
It is possible to receive dental implants after your first trimester; however, because of the stronger anesthesia involved as well as the pre-treatment digital imaging, most dentists recommend waiting.
Less invasive procedures such as dental fillings, crowns, and root canals are completely acceptable after a woman has completed the first trimester. But undergoing dental implant placement requires a more extensive process, and a dentist must weigh the risks against the benefits.
Studies show that digital imaging during the early stages of pregnancy is risky, as is the use of general anesthesia, which can be harmful to both the mother and unborn child. Not to mention, if you are pregnant, there is a good chance you will experience hormonal changes that can lead to gum disease – a damaging condition that threatens the success of implant placement.
What Can Pregnant Women Do to Restore Their Smiles?
If dental implants are not a possibility during pregnancy, what are the available options? It might seem as if it is an all-or-nothing situation, but the truth is that once you enter into the second trimester, you can begin the initial stages of the dental implant process. Scheduling a consultation with your dentist is the first step, as they will evaluate your oral health and determine the density of your jawbone.
While these might change throughout your pregnancy, they can closely monitor you to ensure you will be ready to move forward with oral surgery once you have given birth.
In the meantime, there is always the option to have a partial denture created to fill in the gaps of your smile as well as keep natural teeth from shifting out of alignment. The option is yours, but you will find it beneficial to meet with your dentist to discuss how you can get started toward a healthier, permanent smile even while pregnant.
About the Author
Dr. John Ludu and his team at Devoted Family Dental believe in the possibilities that only dental implants can provide. When placing them in a patient who is suffering tooth loss, it can be a wonderful feeling knowing their teeth are now permanent and fully in place. However, even before the surgical procedure, Dr. Ludu is here to answer questions and address concerns to ensure everyone who aspires for this type of tooth replacement solution is equipped to make the right choice for their oral health. Contact us at (623) 444-6222 to learn what answers will help you in your decision-making process.