Getting Braces During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

If you're pregnant and wondering whether getting braces during pregnancy is safe, you're not alone. Many expecting mothers are interested in improving their smiles but also want to protect their health and their baby’s well-being. The good news? Yes, it is generally safe to get braces while pregnant—as long as you take a few extra precautions and work closely with your orthodontist and obstetrician.

Why Consider Braces During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy can be a time when you’re focused on health, nutrition, and overall self-care. It can also be a great time to take care of dental issues, especially if you have more flexibility in your schedule. If crooked teeth, gaps, or bite problems have been bothering you, starting orthodontic treatment now might seem like a good idea.

Another benefit? Pregnant women often have an increased awareness of oral health. Hormonal changes can lead to more sensitivity in the gums, known as "pregnancy gingivitis." Keeping teeth in the right alignment can make cleaning easier and improve long-term oral hygiene.

What to Know Before Getting Braces

Even though it's safe, there are a few things you should discuss with your healthcare team before starting orthodontic treatment:

• Dental X-rays: Most orthodontists will want to take X-rays before placing braces. While modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation, you should always let your dentist and orthodontist know you're pregnant. They may choose to delay the X-rays or use extra protection like a lead apron.

• Discomfort and Sensitivity: Braces can cause soreness, especially during the first few weeks. Pregnancy may make you more sensitive to discomfort. Make sure you're prepared to handle this and let your orthodontist know if you're feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable.

• Medications and Allergies: If you need pain relievers or numbing agents for dental work, always confirm with your OB-GYN if they’re safe during pregnancy. Some materials used in braces (like latex or nickel) can also cause allergic reactions, which are more common during pregnancy.

• Oral Hygiene: You’ll need to brush and floss more carefully when you have braces. Pregnancy hormones can make your gums swollen or tender, so extra care is needed to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

The Bottom Line

Getting braces during pregnancy is usually safe—but communication is key. Talk to your dentist, orthodontist, and OB-GYN to create a plan that fits your health needs and timeline. If you’re already wearing braces and become pregnant, don’t worry. Just continue your treatment and keep all your healthcare providers informed.

Taking care of your teeth now can give you the confidence to smile wide in those baby pictures later. So yes, mama—you can have both a healthy pregnancy and a healthy smile!