Teeth whitening is popular, quick, and safe. It’s a great way to give you a bright, white smile that will give a boost to your self-confidence. However, if you are pregnant or nursing, most dentists recommend that you not have a whitening treatment.
Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy
Teeth whitening uses a bleaching agent to remove surface stains and discoloration from your teeth. The bleaching agent typically contains hydrogen peroxide. Although there is no indication that having your teeth whitening during pregnancy or nursing is dangerous to your baby, there is also no definitive evidence that it is completely safe. Without complete certainty that whitening is safe, it is best to wait until after your baby is born and you have finished nursing.
Whitening is not the only dental procedure most dentists recommend bypassing during pregnancy. X-rays are on the no-no list, too, as well as anything requiring a general anesthetic. Local anesthetic is also best avoided, since like whitening there is no certainty that it’s safe. If you have a dental emergency, however, you and your dentist can decide the best course of action for you and your baby.
Alternatives to Whitening Treatment
The best way to avoid this conundrum is to have your teeth thoroughly attended to before you become pregnant. It’s not always possible to plan such things, though, so if you do find yourself feeling self-conscious about brownish or yellowish teeth during pregnancy or while you’re nursing, talk to your cosmetic dentist about alternatives. Sometimes a simple baking soda toothpaste—or baking soda used on its own to clean your teeth—can make a big difference on external staining.
If alternatives prove unsuccessful, then your best course of action is to wait until your baby is born and has been weaned before you have your teeth professionally whitened. Then you’ll be confident that your smile is bright and white added to the certainty that your baby is happy and healthy.
For more information about safe dental care during pregnancy, contact our experienced dental office at 817-465-0355 today.
