Pregnancy is a unique and transformative period in a woman’s life. Your body is changing, your hormones are fluctuating, and your focus is constantly on the health of your baby. But what if you lose a tooth or develop a serious dental issue during this time? In this article, we explain the medical guidelines, when a dental implant is or isn’t recommended during pregnancy, and what alternatives are available until after childbirth. The goal is to help you make informed decisions together with your dental specialist.
Why dental implants are not recommended during pregnancy
A dental implant is a surgical procedure in which a titanium screw is placed into the jawbone. Although this is a safe and routine treatment nowadays, there are several factors during pregnancy that make it less advisable to undergo implant surgery.
Medical imaging
Before placing a dental implant, X-rays or a CBCT scan are typically taken to assess the structure of your jawbone and the position of nerves. While modern imaging equipment is very safe, exposure to radiation—especially during the first trimester—is best avoided.
Anaesthesia and medication
A (local) anaesthesia is used during implant surgery. Some anaesthetic agents can affect blood circulation or the placenta. In addition, painkillers or antibiotics are often prescribed after the procedure, which may carry risks for the baby, particularly in early pregnancy.
Increased risk of complications
During pregnancy, your body is more sensitive to inflammation, gum problems, and bleeding due to hormonal fluctuations that affect your immune system. This can lead to slower healing and a higher risk of infection around the implant site.
When is the best time for a dental implant?
The safest time to receive a dental implant is after pregnancy, once your body has recovered. This allows the dental specialist to:
- Perform medical imaging without restrictions;
- Prescribe medications that may not be recommended during pregnancy;
- Carry out the procedure in a stable physical condition, free from hormonal fluctuations.
Note: If you are breastfeeding, be sure to inform your dentist or surgeon. Not all medications are breastfeeding-safe, although the risks are significantly lower than during pregnancy.
Waiting is usually the best choice
While it is technically possible to place a dental implant during pregnancy, most specialists strongly advise against it. Not because the implant itself is unsafe, but because the overall circumstances during pregnancy are not ideal for a smooth and safe procedure.
Have you lost a tooth during pregnancy or are you considering an implant? Discuss your situation with your dentist or implantologist, and together you can choose the safest and most comfortable solution for both you and your baby.
Are you looking for more information about dental implants or do you want dental implants? Take a look at our blog or contact specialist Doctor Frank Vanhove!
Doctor Frank Vanhove has more than 20 years of experience as an oral, maxillofacial and maxillofacial surgeon. Today he focuses exclusively on implantology. Dr. Frank Vanhove is the specialist in the field of dental prostheses and implants. He and his team place implants, a fixed and provisional dental bridge in one day. So you walk out the same day with a radiant smile.
