Losing a tooth can affect how your smile looks, how you speak and chew, and even your long-term oral health. Dental implants are widely considered the best way to replace missing teeth because they restore both the root and the crown. But if you’re pregnant, you may be wondering whether it’s safe to undergo this procedure now or if it’s better to wait until after your baby arrives.
Below is what expecting patients should know about dental implants, timing, and safety during pregnancy.
Why Dental Implants Are Normally Recommended Quickly
In most cases, dentists encourage patients to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to shrink over time because it no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root. A dental implant prevents this bone loss by acting like an artificial root and supporting a stable, natural-looking restoration.
Getting treatment sooner rather than later can also help you maintain your bite alignment, protect surrounding teeth, and restore your ability to eat comfortably. However, pregnancy introduces unique medical considerations that may affect when implant placement should occur.
Is It Safe to Get Dental Implants During Pregnancy?
Most dentists and oral surgeons recommend postponing elective implant surgery until after pregnancy. Implant placement requires oral surgery, local anesthesia, possible sedation, and diagnostic imaging, all of which are typically avoided unless absolutely necessary for your health.
Even though modern dental X-rays use very low radiation and protective shielding, many providers prefer not to expose expecting patients to imaging unless there is an urgent concern. Additionally, certain medications prescribed after implant surgery, such as pain relievers or antibiotics, may not be ideal during pregnancy.
While routine cleanings, exams, and necessary dental treatments are generally considered safe during pregnancy, implant surgery is usually classified as elective and can almost always wait until after delivery.
Are There Any Exceptions?
In rare cases where an oral infection or damaged tooth threatens your overall health, limited treatment may be recommended during pregnancy to resolve the problem. However, instead of placing a dental implant right away, your dentist will likely focus on stabilizing the area and preventing complications.
Once your pregnancy is complete and your healthcare providers agree it’s safe, you can return to discuss implant placement.
Temporary Tooth Replacement Options During Pregnancy
Just because implant surgery is delayed doesn’t mean you have to live with a visible gap in your smile. Many patients choose a temporary solution until they are ready for their implant procedure.
Your dentist may recommend:
• A removable partial denture (flipper)
• A temporary bridge
• Cosmetic bonding in certain cases
These solutions can improve appearance and function while protecting nearby teeth and gum tissue. After pregnancy, your dentist can reevaluate your oral health, take updated images, and create a personalized implant treatment plan.
The Bottom Line: When Should You Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent long-term solution for missing teeth, but because pregnancy involves additional health considerations, most providers recommend waiting until after delivery to have them placed. In the meantime, temporary restorations can help you maintain confidence and comfort until it’s the right time to move forward.
With supportive care and guidance from your dentist, you can protect your smile now and plan the safest approach to your future implant treatment.
About the Practice
Penn Dental Arts provides comprehensive restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentistry with an emphasis on patient education, comfort, and long-term oral health. Dr. Patel and Dr. Gaspari offer personalized implant treatment planning and a wide range of tooth replacement solutions to meet each patient’s functional and aesthetic goals. Through detailed evaluation, collaborative care, and evidence-based procedures, we help patients restore strong, healthy, and confident smiles in a supportive and compassionate environment.
Call us at (484) 406-3110 or request an appointment online.