Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in a woman’s life but it comes with restrictions and limitations. One such concern is the safety of teeth whitening during pregnancy and many women are curious about it. Teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic treatment that involves using various methods to lighten the shade of teeth and get a brighter smile.
However, pregnancy is a crucial time, and you must be careful about everything you do, including the products you use and the treatments you undergo. Knowing the potential risks and checking with your healthcare provider before undergoing any cosmetic dental procedures during pregnancy is essential.
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure performed in dental clinics to lighten the colour of the teeth and improve their appearance. It is a safe and effective way to remove stains and discolouration, providing patients with a brighter and more confident smile. Dental clinics offer professional teeth whitening treatments that are more potent and reliable than over-the-counter whitening products.
Professional teeth whitening treatments performed by our dental team are generally more potent and yield better results compared to other alternative products. Dentists can tailor the treatment to your specific needs and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. It’s important to consult with your SW Calgary dentist to determine the most suitable teeth whitening approach based on your case.
Are teeth whitening safe during pregnancy?
The safety of teeth whitening during pregnancy is a topic of concern for many expectant mothers. While maintaining good oral health is important during pregnancy, there are some considerations to keep in mind regarding teeth whitening procedures.
The primary concern with teeth whitening during pregnancy is the potential exposure to bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are commonly used in whitening products. These agents have not been extensively studied for their safety during pregnancy.
It’s generally recommended to avoid elective dental procedures, including teeth whitening, during the first trimester of pregnancy when the baby’s organs are developing. This cautious approach is taken due to the lack of comprehensive research on the effects of dental bleaching agents on fetal development.
However, during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, if a woman wishes to undergo teeth whitening, it’s advisable to consult with both the dentist and obstetrician. They can evaluate individual circumstances and provide personalized guidance based on the specific situation.
In certain cases, dentists may recommend delaying teeth whitening treatments until after pregnancy as a precautionary measure. Alternatively, if the discolouration is mild, they may recommend non-bleaching options such as professional dental cleanings or the use of whitening toothpaste specifically formulated for pregnant individuals.
During pregnancy, prioritizing the overall health and well-being of both the mother and baby is of utmost importance. Consulting with healthcare professionals, including our dentist at Braeside Dental Centre and an obstetrician, is crucial to making an informed decision about teeth whitening or other dental treatments during pregnancy.
If you want to know more, call us at 403-251-1055 to book your consultation.
