Dental Care During Pregnancy: What's Safe and Why It Matters

When you're expecting, it's natural to second-guess everything, including whether a trip to the dentist is a good idea right now. You want to protect your baby, and you may have heard mixed advice about cleanings, x-rays or numbing. The reassuring news is that the CDC and the American Dental Association both say dental care is safe and important during pregnancy. At our New Haven dental office, we're glad to see you through every trimester. We'll cover what's safe, how pregnancy can change your gums, and what to tell us so your care fits you and your baby.

Dental care is safe at every stage

Routine checkups, cleanings and needed treatment are safe during pregnancy. The CDC says you can seek routine and emergency dental care at any stage of pregnancy, and the ADA notes that it, along with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics, encourages dental visits while you're expecting.

That means you don't have to put your checkup on hold until after your baby arrives. Keeping up with your regular checkups and cleanings lets us look after your teeth and gums during a time when they may need a little extra care.

Numbing and x-rays are safe too

If you've been wondering about numbing or x-rays, the ADA's guide to pregnancy dental concerns explains that local numbing medicine, such as lidocaine, is safe during pregnancy, and that dental x-rays are safe too because they use very low doses of radiation. If we recommend either one, we'll explain why before we begin, and you're always welcome to ask questions or loop in your OB.

Your gums may feel different for a while

Many people notice their gums change during pregnancy. The CDC explains that you're more likely to develop gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, when your gums become red and swollen, and that changing hormones can make it worse. The ADA adds that higher hormone levels change how your gums react to plaque, so they may feel tender or bleed a little when you brush or floss.

If that happens, keep brushing gently and cleaning between your teeth. Bleeding gums are always worth mentioning to us, and they're a good reason to come in for a cleaning. We'll clean away the buildup your toothbrush can't reach and let you know if coming in more often would help during your pregnancy.

Morning sickness and your enamel

Morning sickness can leave stomach acid on your teeth, and the ADA offers a simple, gentle fix. After you've been sick, rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water to wash away the extra acid. It's an easy habit to keep by the sink, and it helps protect your enamel on the harder days.

Keep up with the everyday basics, too: brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily. Our preventive care options, like fluoride varnish, can give your enamel extra support, and we'll recommend what fits your teeth and your comfort.

Your healthy smile helps your baby's

Taking care of your own teeth now is a gift to your little one, too. The CDC notes that children whose mothers have a lot of untreated cavities are more likely to develop cavities themselves. Getting your mouth healthy during pregnancy is one of the ways you can start your baby off well.

Sharing your pregnancy details with us

Start by telling us you're pregnant, as soon as you know. The ADA recommends letting your dentist know your due date, any medications you take and whether your pregnancy is considered high-risk. That helps our team plan your care and work with your OB if either of us has questions.

It also helps to tell us:

• Any changes you've noticed, like tender, puffy or bleeding gums
• How morning sickness has been going
• Any tooth that's been sore or sensitive
• What would make you more comfortable in the chair as your pregnancy goes along

Planning cosmetic work around your pregnancy

If you've been thinking about whitening or another cosmetic change, we're happy to talk through timing with you. We'll focus on keeping your teeth and gums healthy now, and when you're ready, we can plan the smile you've been dreaming about together.

When to call us

Call us if your gums bleed often, a tooth hurts, you notice swelling, or you're simply not sure whether a change is normal. The CDC is clear that emergency dental care is safe at any point in pregnancy, so there's no need to wait out a toothache. We'll get you seen and talk through every step with you.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to go to the dentist while pregnant?

Yes. The CDC and the ADA both say dental care is safe and important during pregnancy, and you can see the dentist at any stage for routine or emergency care. Let us know you're pregnant and share your due date and medications, so we can plan your visit and work with your OB if needed.

Are dental x-rays safe during pregnancy?

The ADA considers dental x-rays safe during pregnancy because they use very low doses of radiation. If we recommend an x-ray, we'll explain why it will help your care before we take it. You're always welcome to ask questions or talk with your OB first, and we'll plan around what feels right to you.

Why do my gums bleed more while I'm pregnant?

Pregnancy hormones change how your gums react to plaque, which can make them swollen, tender and more likely to bleed. The CDC notes that pregnant people are more likely to develop gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Keep brushing gently, clean between your teeth daily and come see us for a cleaning.

How can I protect my teeth from morning sickness?

After you've been sick, the ADA suggests rinsing with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water to wash away stomach acid. Keep brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth. If morning sickness is frequent, tell us at your visit, and we'll talk about ways to give your enamel extra protection.

Caring for you through your pregnancy

You're taking care of so much right now, and we'd love to take care of your smile. Our New Haven, CT dental team welcomes you at any stage of your pregnancy. Call us at (203) 624-5256, visit us at 375 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06511, or send us a message through our contact page to schedule your visit.

Published by Center for Esthetic Dentistry.