Is Laser Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy OK?

Question

Is it safe to have laser teeth whitening performed during pregnancy? If not, is there a safer method of teeth whitening instead?

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

The studies just don't exist, since challenge in this situation is to find pregnant volunteers for the study.  While it is VERY LIKELY safe, all bleaching products have warnings against use for small children and pregnant women.  The truth is, we just don't know.

	Even laser whitening uses peroxide gels, so there is no getting around them.  Most dentists will decline treating until after the pregnancy.

Kristen Berning, DDS · Answer

Although there is no evidence that laser whitening teeth while pregnant will affect the developing baby, it is best to postpone the whitening procedure until a woman is no longer pregnant and not breastfeeding.   Healthy babies are very important, and until we know more, we recommend choosing the safest option: waiting. 

	In the meantime, it is critical to keep your gums and teeth very healthy.  Pregnancy gingivitis and periodontal disease can actually be a risk to the developing baby, so make sure to see your dentist!

Elizabeth Jahanian, DDS · Answer

Pregnant women should not use any in-office or at-home whitening products.  However, it's fine to use regular whitening toothpaste such as Crest Whitening.  Brush and floss twice a day to prevent stain build-up and get your regular dental cleanings.  Best, Dr. Elizabeth Jahanian.

Wendy S. Spektor, DDS · Answer

Pregnancy is a wonderful time-It is a time to eat right, exercise and take care of yourself.  While I doubt that whitening is a problem-most of us agree that waiting is the best advice we can give at this time. 

	Go to your dentist and get a good cleaning-use whitening toothpastes like Supersmile.  Once you have had your baby and have stopped breast feeding, go get a professional whitening!!!

M. Andrew Atwood, DDS · Answer

I would just wait. Peroxides are capable of mutating genes, although they would have to get deep into the tissue and then into the blood stream, and then to the baby to affect the baby's health. I doubt that it is significantly absorbed to do that, but it is wise to just wait and get them whitened first thing when your baby is born.

Is Laser Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy OK?

Answers (9)

Answer: Wait on Whitening When Pregnant

Answer: Wait on Whitening When Pregnant

Answer: Best to wait on whitening your teeth

Answer: Best to wait on whitening your teeth

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Teeth Whitening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is Laser Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy OK?

Answers (9)

Answer: Wait on Whitening When Pregnant

Answer: Wait on Whitening When Pregnant

Answer: Best to wait on whitening your teeth

Answer: Best to wait on whitening your teeth

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Teeth Whitening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.