If you’re pregnant—or planning to become pregnant—you may be wondering whether now is the right time to start or continue orthodontic treatment. The good news is that braces are generally safe during pregnancy. However, pregnancy brings unique changes to your body that can affect your teeth and gums, so there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
This guide explains what to expect when managing braces during pregnancy, when it may be better to wait, and how to protect your oral health if you’re pregnant with braces or considering starting treatment.
Can you get braces while pregnant?
Yes, you can safely get braces while pregnant. Orthodontic appliances—such as metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners—do not pose a direct risk to you or your baby. That said, pregnancy-related changes in gum health, sensitivity, and scheduling tolerance mean orthodontists should personalize the treatment plan.
Before starting orthodontic care, it’s essential to have an evaluation by an orthodontist who can assess your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
Dental X-rays
Orthodontic treatment often requires dental X-rays. While modern dental imaging uses low radiation and is considered safe with proper shielding, most providers prefer to:
- Use recent X-rays taken before pregnancy, or
- Delay non-essential imaging, especially during the first trimester
If imaging is absolutely necessary, protective lead shielding is always used to minimize exposure.
Wondering if it's safe to get braces while pregnant?
Things to consider before getting braces during pregnancy
Increased gum inflammation
Hormonal changes—particularly increased estrogen and progesterone—can make gums more sensitive to plaque, increasing the risk of:
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Pregnancy gingivitis
Braces can make plaque removal more challenging, so excellent oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings are essential.
Morning sickness
Frequent nausea or vomiting can expose teeth to stomach acids, which may:
- Weaken enamel
- Increase cavity risk
- Cause tooth sensitivity
Rinsing with water after vomiting and waiting 30 minutes before brushing helps protect tooth enamel.
Tooth decay
What if you are already pregnant with braces
If you become pregnant while already wearing braces, treatment can usually continue safely. Pregnancy alone is not a reason to remove braces.
However, because hormonal changes may increase:
- Gum swelling and bleeding
- Sensitivity around brackets and wires
Your orthodontist may adjust treatment by:
- Slowing tooth movement if inflammation is present
- Reducing adjustment intensity
- Temporarily focusing on monitoring and support if needed
Close communication between your orthodontist, general dentist, and OB-GYN is key to maintaining comfort and oral health.
When might it be better to wait until after pregnancy
While braces during pregnancy are generally safe, waiting may be the better choice in certain situations:
- You’re in the first trimester and experiencing significant nausea or fatigue
- New X-rays are required and no recent imaging is available
- You have moderate to severe gum disease that needs treatment first
- Pregnancy symptoms make dental visits uncomfortable
- Orthodontic treatment is elective and not urgent
In these cases, delaying treatment can lead to a more comfortable, manageable, and stress-free experience.
How to keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy
We’ve all heard about the significant impact pregnancy can have on a woman’s body—and the teeth and gums are no exception, for example during pregnancy, women may face a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Whether or not you have braces, taking extra care of your teeth and gums is essential—especially if you’re wearing braces while pregnant.
- Brush and floss daily: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily to remove plaque and help prevent pregnancy gingivitis.
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush: Helps clean effectively while protecting sensitive gums.
- Rinse after morning sickness: Rinse with water, then a fluoride mouthwash to neutralize acids; wait 30 minutes before brushing.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet: Choose foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein; limit sugary snacks and drinks to reduce cavity risk.
- Avoid damaging or irritating foods: Steer clear of hard or sticky foods (especially with braces) and minimize spicy or acidic foods if gums are sensitive. Check out drinks you can have with braces for safer beverage options.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support saliva flow and help protect against tooth decay.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine checkups and cleanings help detect and manage pregnancy-related gum issues early.
- Chew sugar-free gum: Helps relieve dry mouth and stimulate saliva; choose gum with xylitol (a natural sugar substitute) to help prevent cavities.
- Manage increased sensitivity: Pregnancy and braces can increase gum sensitivity. Gently massaging the gums with clean fingers or a soft toothbrush, along with professional dental advice, can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Can you have Invisalign while pregnant?
Yes—you can have Invisalign while pregnant, and clear aligners are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Invisalign can be a convenient option for some patients, particularly those with mild to moderate alignment concerns.
Benefits of Invisalign for pregnant women:
- No wires or brackets to irritate sensitive gums
- Removable for easier brushing and flossing
- Fewer in-office visits compared to traditional braces
However, gum sensitivity may still increase, and excellent oral hygiene is essential. Clinicians usually postpone imaging unless recent X-rays are available.
Consulting an orthodontist
Orthodontic treatment—including braces and Invisalign—can be safely managed during pregnancy, but it requires thoughtful planning, excellent hygiene, and open communication with your healthcare providers.
If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy and considering braces, a consultation with an orthodontist is the best next step to determine what’s right for you.
At Image Orthodontics, you’ll be cared for by a team of certified orthodontists and dental professionals who will support you every step of the way and ensure all your questions are answered.
