Braces during pregnancy: care and treatment decisions
Originally published
If you become pregnant while wearing braces, tell your orthodontist so they can review your care. Pregnancy does not mean you should stop attending appointments or change how you wear your appliance without advice. The plan should take account of your oral health, pregnancy and comfort.
Starting or continuing treatment
If you are considering braces, discuss the timing with the orthodontist before committing to treatment. Ask what assessment is needed, how your gums are doing and whether you can manage the regular appointments and daily cleaning. If there are pregnancy-related medical concerns, the dental team can liaise with your maternity team.
There is no need to assume that all dental care must wait until the second trimester or after the birth. Necessary dental treatment can be provided during pregnancy; pain or infection should be assessed promptly. This is different from deciding when to start a planned course of orthodontics. The American Dental Association’s pregnancy guidance explains this distinction for dental care.
What about dental X-rays?
Tell the team if you are pregnant or might be pregnant before any imaging. A dental X-ray can be taken during pregnancy when it is needed for diagnosis or treatment. The clinician should explain why it is needed and weigh the benefits and risks; pregnancy is not an automatic reason to postpone it. Guy’s and St Thomas’ explains dental X-rays in pregnancy.
Looking after your gums
Hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive to plaque during pregnancy. Brackets and wires also make cleaning more demanding. Bleeding, swollen or sore gums need attention rather than being dismissed as an unavoidable part of pregnancy.
Brush carefully with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth and around the appliance using the tools your dental team recommends. Keep your routine dental check-ups as well as orthodontic appointments. Our guide to bleeding gums explains when to seek help.
Nausea, diet and comfort
If morning sickness makes brushing difficult, ask your dentist for practical help. After vomiting, rinse your mouth with water and avoid brushing straight away, as stomach acid temporarily softens the tooth surface. Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals. The Oral Health Foundation’s pregnancy advice covers these everyday concerns.
Let the team know if lying back makes you feel unwell, or if your brace is rubbing or broken. Tell them about medicines, allergies and any change in your health. Adjustments to treatment should be agreed with the orthodontist rather than made at home.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy and have questions about your braces, contact the practice to discuss your next appointment.