Pregnancy and breastfeeding are significant periods in a woman's life. The importance of ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and baby during these months is paramount. These questions extend to oral health care, beyond essential preventive or corrective care to purely cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening.
There's admittedly limited research on the effects of teeth whitening during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It’s worth noting, however, that most dentists recommend avoiding teeth whitening products as a precautionary measure. This is because the safety of whitening agents for pregnant or breastfeeding women, particularly those containing peroxide, has not yet been conclusively established. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more sensitive and prone to irritation, exacerbating the risk of one of teeth whitening’s most common potential side effects.
Some over-the-counter whitening products may claim to be safe for use during pregnancy. Even so, it's best to consult with a dentist before using any teeth whitening treatments during these periods. During this time, it’s far more important to focus on maintaining robust at-home practices and regularly scheduling routine dental check-ups to ensure your own oral health and that of your baby.
Professional Teeth Whitening and Prenatal Oral Health Care in Los Gatos, CA
If you’re looking for a dental care team in Los Gatos, CA with experience ensuring women’s oral health throughout the transformative period of pregnancy and new motherhood via preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care, contact dentist Dr. Nicole Pagonis and the team at Nicole Pagonis DDS to schedule a consultation!