Locations:
Search IconSearch

Is It Safe To Go to the Dentist While Pregnant?

Dental care is not only safe during pregnancy, but it’s also highly recommended

Pregnant patient lying in dentist chair during examination with dentist beside her

Pregnancy fills your calendar with many, many recommended healthcare visits. Given all those appointments, you might be tempted to skip that trip to the dentist for your regular six-month cleaning and exam.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

A word of advice? Don’t cancel. You might need that visit now more than ever.

Pregnancy increases your risk for dental issues that can affect you and the fetus if left untreated. It’s critically important to continue getting oral care and needed dental work during this time.

To learn more, we turn to Ob/Gyn Julian Peskin, MD.

How can pregnancy cause dental issues?

It’s not exactly shocking news that pregnancy ramps up hormone production. But what may surprise you a bit is how that increased hormone load can lead to periodontal (or gum) disease.

That surge in hormones can cause inflammation in your gums, explains Dr. Peskin. Food can more easily become trapped in swollen gums, leading to a plaque buildup on your gumline and gingivitis.

It’s estimated that 60% to 75% of those who are pregnant develop gingivitis, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Pregnancy hormones also can cause morning sickness and vomiting. Acid that gushes up from your stomach when you vomit can eat away at the tough layer of enamel on your teeth, leading to decay and cavities.

The gag reflex and nausea that come with morning sickness can also make you less likely to brush your teeth well, adding to the potential for decay.

Advertisement

Risks of gum disease while pregnant

Severe cases of gum disease can cause potential complications in your pregnancy. Research links periodontal disease to:

Is dental work safe during pregnancy?

The benefits of seeing a dentist during pregnancy far outweigh any potential risks. That’s true whether you’re talking about basic tooth cleaning, having a cavity filled or more involved dental work.

“It’s perfectly fine to have gum surgery or other major dental work performed during pregnancy,” says Dr. Peskin. “You don’t have to wait.”

If you need considerable dental work and are experiencing morning sickness, talk to your dentist about the timing. “It’s probably best to do it in the second or third trimester when you aren’t experiencing as much nausea, vomiting or gag reflex,” she adds.

Are dental X-rays safe while pregnant?

If you’re getting a dental X-ray, let your dentist know if you’re pregnant. “They will use a lead apron to protect your developing fetus and your thyroid,” says Dr. Peskin.

What about anesthetics?

Local anesthetics (such as lidocaine) are considered safe to use during a dental procedure while pregnant, says Dr. Peskin. Studies show that any chance of a negative effect on you or the fetus is minimal at best.

But again, it’s always best to talk to your dentist and let them know that you’re pregnant before any procedures.

Oral hygiene during pregnancy

The keys to good oral health are the same whether you’re pregnant or not. Keep brushing your teeth at least twice a day with toothpaste and continue to floss. If you use mouthwash, look for an alcohol-free product.

Shop for bland-tasting toothpaste if flavored varieties seem to jumpstart morning sickness. If you do vomit, rinsing with a simple mix of water and baking soda can help protect your teeth.

Tips for keeping teeth and gums healthy

Keep brushing and flossing your chompers and DO NOT CANCEL your regular visit for a dental exam. If your gums suddenly get more sensitive or start to bleed, talk to your dentist about getting checked for gingivitis.

Plus, eat a healthy, balanced pregnancy diet that includes tooth-friendly vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, protein and vitamins A, C and D.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Pregnant person happily folding baby clothes in the nursery
November 22, 2024/Pregnancy & Childbirth
Nesting Instinct When Pregnant

The urge to get your home ready for baby often hits in the last trimester — but not everyone experiences it

Smiling new parents holding swaddled newborn baby
November 20, 2024/Pregnancy & Childbirth
Newborn Coming Into Your Life? Here’s What Vaccines You Should Get

Baby’s caregivers should be up-to-date on flu, COVID-19 and Tdap vaccines to protect the newborn in their lives

Person in bathroom, with jars of products on shelf, wrapping long piece of floss around fingers
November 13, 2024/Oral Health
How To Properly Floss Your Teeth

Done correctly, daily flossing can help keep your teeth and gums healthy

Pregnant person in medical office with healthcare provider
November 6, 2024/Women's Health
Ob/Gyn or Midwife: Understanding the Differences

Ob/Gyns are trained physicians who can care for more complex medical needs than midwives, but which you choose depends on your health and comfort

Caregiver holding newborn on chest, with bathtub filling in background
October 31, 2024/Pregnancy & Childbirth
Newborn’s First Bath: The Benefits of Waiting

Delaying baby’s first bath can encourage breastfeeding success and strengthen bonding

Person showing healthcare provider where their breast hurts in exam room
October 24, 2024/Women's Health
How To Know if You Could Have a Breast Abscess — and What To Do About It

A breast abscess feels like a hot, hard and painful lump — seek support from a healthcare provider at first signs of an infection

Pregnant person sleeping on back on the couch
September 23, 2024/Pregnancy & Childbirth
Is It Really All That Bad To Sleep on Your Back While Pregnant?

Sleeping on your back for long stretches may impact circulation as your bump gets bigger — sleeping on your side is safest

Pregnant person making a healthy smoothie
September 13, 2024/Pregnancy & Childbirth
How To Lower Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Lifestyle changes can help, but you may also need medication

Trending Topics

Person touching aching ear, with home remedies floating around
Home Remedies for an Ear Infection: What To Try and What To Avoid

Not all ear infections need antibiotics — cold and warm compresses and changing up your sleep position can help

Infographic of foods high in iron, including shrimp, oysters, peas, cream of wheat, prunes, eggs, broccoli, beef and chicken
52 Foods High In Iron

Pump up your iron intake with foods like tuna, tofu and turkey

Person squeezing half a lemon into a glass of water
Is Starting Your Day With Lemon Water Healthy?

A glass of lemon water in the morning can help with digestion and boost vitamin C levels, and may even help get you into a better routine

Ad