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Dental implants are a big investment, which is why many patients take a little time before committing to moving forward with the treatment. If you’ve just decided to commit to treatment, but fate has it that you’re also pregnant, will you be able to carry on with restoring your smile? Read on to learn more about the ins-and-outs of getting dental implants if you’re pregnant.
Are Dental Implant an Elective Procedure?
A key concern of having any type of surgical procedure if you’re pregnant is weighing the risks and benefits. Your dentist wants to minimize any harm to you and your baby, which is why typically, because dental implants are considered an elective procedure, many opt to not complete the procedure until after your pregnancy.
While this can be incredibly disappointing to hear, the surgical aspect of this treatment, as well as the need for your implants to fuse with your jawbone, can have implications on both your health as well as your treatment success rate.
Should You Wait to Get Dental Implants if You’re Pregnant?
In short, because getting dental implants can often wait, many dentists opt to postpone treatment until after the pregnancy. This is largely due to the changes in your immune system, which could increase the risk of dental implant failure, as well as the possibility of gestational diabetes, which can also increase the chances of failure.
In addition to these concerns, many antibiotics are off the table when you’re pregnant. If you’re unable to address signs of post-operative infections and complications, this could also lead to implant failure as well as risk the health of both you and your baby. At the end of the day, the key concern is your health and safety!
Preparing for Dental Implants Following Pregnancy
After you’ve delivered and you’re no longer pregnant, your dentist can work with you to create a custom-tailored treatment plan based on your current oral health and anatomy. Simply schedule a consultation as soon as you feel comfortable enough to get the ball rolling! Your dentist will begin by gathering your medical history and any diagnostic images, like X-rays. They will also complete a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. Based on their findings, your dentist will walk you through a treatment plan that’s customized to fit your needs. Once all of your questions have been answered, you can decide whether you want to move forward with the procedure.
Although having to wait until after your pregnancy to get dental implants may be deflating, it’s ultimately the best decision for not only your health, but also the overall success of your procedure. With a healthy new baby and a whole smile, you’ll feel truly lucky!
About the Author
Dr. Angelo Julovich has several decades of experience in the dental field as well as countless hours of continuing education under his belt. His favorite part of being a dentist is rebuilding and restoring patients’ smiles and seeing their confidence transform, so it’s only natural that he would also offer dental implants! For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Trinity Dental’s website or call 317-769-3335.