Teeth whitening & pregnancy
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, we don’t offer teeth whitening yet. UK NHS guidance lists pregnancy and breastfeeding as reasons not to have whitening right now. We’ll keep your smile healthy and bright safely during pregnancy, then plan whitening for later. nhs.uk
Why we defer whitening in pregnancy
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Precaution first. Whitening gels (carbamide/hydrogen peroxide) are powerful; there’s not enough safety data in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so we postpone. nhs.uk
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UK law. Whitening products that release 0.1–6% hydrogen peroxide must be provided by registered dental professionals; over-18s only (with limited clinical exceptions). General Dental Council
Pregnancy dental care: what’s safe & recommended
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Check-ups and hygiene are encouraged. Routine dental care in pregnancy is appropriate; we focus on gum health and stain control. If X-rays are non-urgent, we usually wait until after birth; if clinically essential, dental radiographs can be justified and pregnancy is not a contraindication in dental practice because the pelvic area isn’t exposed. nhs.uk+1
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Fillings. Under UK rules, amalgam should not be used (or removed) in pregnancy unless strictly necessary; we’ll discuss suitable alternatives like composite or glass ionomer. NHS England+1
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Pain relief. Paracetamol is first-choice in pregnancy; avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen after 20 weeks unless a doctor advises otherwise. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. nhs.uk+2GOV.UK+2
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Morning sickness tips. After vomiting, rinse with water (or fluoride mouthwash) and wait ~30–60 minutes before brushing to protect softened enamel. derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk
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NHS entitlement. If you’re pregnant (or within 12 months after birth), you’re entitled to free NHS dental care—bring a Maternity Exemption (MatEx) certificate. NHSBSA
What we can do safely now (no whitening)
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Professional clean & stain removal (scale/polish or air-polish).
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Hygiene coaching for pregnancy-related gum changes.
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Low-peroxide home care: Shop “whitening” pastes/rinses are limited by law to <0.1% peroxide—safe but modest effect. General Dental Council
After pregnancy/breastfeeding: your whitening plan
When you’re ready, we’ll assess your teeth and gums, discuss home-tray vs in-surgery whitening, sensitivity management, and shade goals—always within UK regulations. General Dental Council
FAQs
Is teeth whitening safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No—we don’t recommend or provide whitening during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to limited safety data. We’ll book it for later. nhs.uk
Can I have dental X-rays while pregnant?
If they’re not urgent, we wait. If a radiograph is clinically essential, your dentist can justify it; dental X-rays don’t expose the pelvic area. nhs.uk+1
Which painkillers are OK?
Paracetamol first-line. Avoid ibuprofen after 20 weeks (unless advised by a doctor). Ask your midwife/GP if unsure. nhs.uk+1
Are fillings safe?
Yes. We usually avoid placing/removing amalgam in pregnancy unless strictly necessary; composite/glass ionomer are common choices. NHS England
Do I get free NHS dental care?
Yes—during pregnancy and for 12 months after birth with a MatEx certificate. NHSBSA
Expecting? Book a pregnancy-friendly check & clean. We’ll keep you comfortable and plan whitening for after pregnancy/breastfeeding.
Last reviewed: 18 September 2025 • Clinical reviewer: Dr Peer Nelz (GDC 82848)
Disclaimer: General information only—please follow personalised advice from your dentist and midwife.