Published: 06/03/2025
Pregnancy can be such an exciting time. But it’s also a period of tremendous change—as goes without saying. And while you may be focused on the growth of your little bundle of joy, you also need to care for yourself and your body. That, of course, includes your oral health. Let’s dive into what expectant mom’s need to know about pregnancy and dental health.
Many expectant moms have heard conflicting advice about dental care during pregnancy: some believe it’s best to avoid the dentist altogether. Others may fear that even a simple cleaning might harm the baby. The truth? Skipping dental visits during pregnancy can actually do more harm than good.
For instance, research shows that hormonal shifts during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues. In fact, pregnancy gingivitis affects an estimated 60% to 75% of pregnant women. What’s more, studies have found that poor oral health is linked to potential pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and low birth weight. Finally, there’s also emerging evidence that a mother’s oral health can influence her child’s future dental health, potentially increasing the risk of cavities in children.
While some dental treatments are best postponed until after delivery, routine dental care is not only safe during pregnancy—it’s essential. For a healthy pregnancy and dental health, regular cleanings, exams, and addressing urgent issues, such as infections or severe decay, are a must.
Let’s break down what expectant moms need to know.
Before Pregnancy: A Strong Foundation for Oral Health
The best time to get your smile ready for pregnancy is before you’re expecting. As with many health issues, good oral habits along with a proactive approach to dental care can help you avoid complications not only during pregnancy but beyond.
If you’re thinking about starting a family, it’s wise to schedule a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning as part of your pre-pregnancy planning. This is the ideal time to take care of any untreated issues, such as fillings, crowns, gum disease, or dental infections.
Of course, a healthy mouth starts at home, so build a strong daily routine:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and limit sugary snacks and drinks that can increase cavity risk.
- Consider using a fluoride mouthwash for extra protection if recommended by your dentist.
Addressing dental concerns before pregnancy gives you peace of mind and helps prevent complications that may arise from dental problems during pregnancy. Plus, it sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles for both you and your future little one!
What to Do When You’re Expecting: Pregnancy and Dental Care
Once you’re pregnant, keeping up with your dental health is more important than ever. Hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive, leading to pregnancy gingivitis. This can cause swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. Some women also experience pregnancy tumors (also known as pyogenic granulomas). While these small growths on the gums are usually harmless, they may need to be monitored.
Here’s what to know about safe dental care during pregnancy:
Routine Care Is Safe and Recommended for a Healthy Pregnancy and Dental Health
- Dental cleanings and exams are safe at any stage of pregnancy. However, the second trimester (weeks 14 – 20) is often the most comfortable time for dental work. That said, routine care can be done at any point.
- Remember to let your dentist know you’re pregnant, so they can adjust care if needed.
- Urgent dental issues like tooth infections, abscesses, or severe decay should be treated immediately, regardless of trimester, to prevent pain and potential complications.
Medications and X-Rays
- Local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, are generally considered safe when used appropriately.
- Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clindamycin, and cephalexin are generally safe if prescribed for an infection.
- Dental X-rays are safe during pregnancy with proper shielding (e.g., a lead apron and thyroid collar). If an X-ray is needed for diagnosis or treatment, it’s better to proceed than to risk an untreated problem.
Oral Hygiene at Home
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to reduce gum inflammation and prevent plaque buildup.
- If morning sickness causes vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash—avoid brushing immediately, as stomach acid can weaken enamel.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks that can increase the risk of cavities.
Keeping your mouth healthy during pregnancy isn’t just good for you—it can also support a healthy pregnancy and give your baby the best start toward a healthy smile.
Treatments to Avoid or Delay Until After Pregnancy
While routine dental care is safe and important during pregnancy, there are some treatments best postponed until after your baby is born—unless they’re urgently needed.
Here’s what most dental professionals recommend delaying:
Elective and Non-Urgent Procedures
- Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, or aesthetic contouring.
- Major dental surgeries, such as implant placement, wisdom tooth extractions (if not causing pain or infection), or periodontal surgeries.
- If a procedure can safely be delayed without risk to your health, it’s often best to do so.
Sedation and Certain Medications
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is generally not recommended during pregnancy, as its safety hasn’t been firmly established.
- Tetracycline antibiotics (used for some periodontal infections) should be avoided due to risks to the developing baby’s teeth and bones.
- Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen during the third trimester, unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Other Considerations
- If you’re considering a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) for gum disease, it may still be performed during pregnancy—especially if active periodontal disease is present. However, your dentist may adjust the timing and approach based on your comfort and stage of pregnancy.
- Pregnancy tumors (pyogenic granulomas) usually don’t require removal unless they interfere with eating, speaking, or oral hygiene—most resolve on their own after delivery.
When in doubt, talk with your dental team—they’ll help you weigh the risks and benefits of any procedure during pregnancy.
Pregnancy and Dental Health: A Healthy Smile for You and Your Baby
Pregnancy is a time of exciting change. While some moms worry that dental care during pregnancy isn’t safe, the evidence is clear: keeping up with your dental visits and daily hygiene is not only safe, it’s essential for a healthy pregnancy and dental health.
Hormonal shifts can make gums more sensitive, increasing the risk of gingivitis, gum disease, and even pregnancy tumors. And studies suggest that poor oral health may be linked to pregnancy complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. By taking care of your teeth and gums now, you’re not just protecting your own health—you’re helping set the stage for your baby’s future smile, too.
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