Dental Care During Pregnancy: What's Safe and What to Expect

Pregnancy brings a long list of appointments, and the dentist may not be at the top. But your mouth changes during pregnancy, and keeping it healthy is good for you and your baby. The most important thing to know: routine dental care is safe during pregnancy, and you shouldn't skip it.

How pregnancy affects your mouth

Hormone changes make the gums react more strongly to plaque. That leads to some common changes:

• Pregnancy gingivitis. Many pregnant women notice red, swollen or bleeding gums, often starting in the second trimester. It usually improves after delivery, but it needs attention in the meantime.
• Pregnancy "tumors." Despite the name, these are harmless red growths on the gums that sometimes appear, usually in the second trimester. They often shrink after the baby arrives; if one bothers you, we can talk about options.
• Enamel erosion. Morning sickness and reflux bring stomach acid into the mouth, which can soften enamel.
• More cavities. Cravings, frequent snacking and a tired, nauseated routine can raise cavity risk.

Untreated gum disease has also been studied for possible links with pregnancy complications, which is one more reason to keep your gums healthy.

Is dental treatment safe while pregnant?

Yes. Major medical and dental organizations agree that routine dental care is safe during pregnancy:

• Cleanings and exams are safe at any stage.
• Local anesthetic used for fillings is considered safe.
• X-rays can be taken when needed for diagnosis, especially for urgent problems. Modern digital X-rays use low doses of radiation, and protective shielding is used.
• Treating infections and pain shouldn't wait. A dental infection is a greater risk than the treatment.

Always tell us that you're pregnant, how far along you are, and any medications or prenatal vitamins you're taking.

Timing your visits

• First trimester: Keep your regular cleaning and get any urgent care you need. Some patients prefer to postpone elective treatment until nausea settles.
• Second trimester: Often the most comfortable time for routine treatment such as fillings.
• Third trimester: Routine care is still fine, though lying back for long periods can get uncomfortable. Shorter appointments and extra pillows help. Elective cosmetic work, such as whitening, is best saved for after the baby arrives.

Dealing with morning sickness

If you're vomiting or have reflux:

• Rinse with water, or a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water, to neutralize acid.
• Wait about 30 minutes before brushing so you don't scrub softened enamel.
• If brushing triggers gagging, use a small-headed brush, a mild-flavored toothpaste, and brush slowly.

Daily care for you and your baby

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily.
• Choose water and healthy snacks, and limit sugary drinks.
• Keep up with your cleanings; some women benefit from an extra cleaning during pregnancy.
• Healthy habits now set up good routines for your baby, too. When the time comes, see our guide to your child's first dental visit.

When to call right away

Call us if you have tooth pain, swelling, bleeding that doesn't stop or a broken tooth. Facial swelling with fever, or trouble swallowing or breathing, needs emergency medical care right away.

We're here for both of you

Zen Family Dental cares for patients at every stage of life, from pregnancy to babies' first teeth and beyond. Learn more about our general and preventive care, then request an appointment online or call (703) 385-2772.