Teeth whitening is a common and very safe procedure, but it is a good idea to avoid whitening if you are pregnant or nursing a baby. While you’re pregnant, it’s important to keep your growing child as safe as possible. While whitening agents probably are not harmful, insufficient research exists to confirm this.

Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, you want to look and feel your best. This means regular visits to the dentist to be sure your teeth and gums remain healthy. However, some formerly routine dental procedures should be avoided. One of these is X-rays, which can harm a developing fetus. Another is teeth whitening. [pullquote]The ingredients in whitening agents that remove stains and discoloration are safe for an adult, but could be harmful to your baby if you are pregnant or nursing.[/pullquote]

Whitening procedures, usually administered by a cosmetic dentist, use a bleaching agent that is placed on the teeth and left there for a specific amount of time. Results are often dramatic, and can be seen immediately. The ingredients in whitening agents that remove stains and discoloration are safe for an adult, but could be harmful to your baby if you are pregnant or nursing. Insufficient research has been done into the question, so it’s best overall to avoid this procedure while you’re pregnant.

General Dental Care during Pregnancy

Taking the best possible care of your teeth during your pregnancy is the best way to keep yourself looking and feeling your best. If you’re concerned about staining, try to avoid staining agents in your diet, and definitely avoid cigarette smoking, which not only stains your teeth but can seriously endanger your unborn child. Coffee and tea can also stain your teeth, and many doctors recommend avoiding these beverages during pregnancy as well, because of their caffeine content.

Your teeth and gums are more susceptible to cavities and gum disease during pregnancy because of the changes in hormone levels in your body. For this reason, it’s important to brush and floss regularly and to visit your dentist on a regular basis. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy and letting your dentist ensure your gums and teeth are in good shape can help alleviate any concerns about stains or other dental problems.

To keep your teeth and gums healthy before, during and after pregnancy, contact our experienced dental team at the doctor Family Dentistry today.