Dental care in pregnancy: is it safe to see the dentist?
Gums in pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones make the gums react more strongly to plaque, so many women notice swollen, bleeding gums (“pregnancy gingivitis”), usually from the second month. Occasionally a red lump grows on the gum (a pregnancy granuloma), which is harmless and often shrinks after delivery. Gum disease has been linked with pregnancy complications, so it is worth having your gums checked and treated.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily.
- Have a check-up and scaling; ideally before pregnancy or in the second trimester.
- See bleeding gums for more.
When to have treatment
| Stage | What is usually done |
|---|---|
| First trimester | Check-ups and urgent care for pain or infection; non-urgent treatment usually postponed |
| Second trimester | Preferred time for scaling, fillings and other needed treatment |
| Third trimester | Urgent care; shorter appointments, sitting more upright or tilted to the left for comfort |
Elective cosmetic treatment such as whitening is best left until after the baby is born.
Anaesthetic, X-rays and medicines
- Local anaesthetic is considered safe in pregnancy and is better than enduring dental pain.
- X-rays are avoided unless needed; if they are, a lead apron and thyroid collar are used. See dental X-rays.
- Medicines: any medicine, including pain relief and antibiotics, is chosen with your pregnancy in mind; your dentist will liaise with your obstetrician if needed. Do not take medicines on your own without advice.
Morning sickness and your teeth
Stomach acid softens enamel. After vomiting, rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash and wait about an hour before brushing. Frequent snacking on sweet food, common in pregnancy, also raises the risk of decay; choose tooth-friendly snacks and drink water.
Toothache in pregnancy
Do not wait until after delivery. Dental infections can spread and should be treated at any stage of pregnancy. See toothache at night and, for swelling with fever, dental emergency.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to go to the dentist while pregnant?
Yes. Check-ups, cleaning and needed treatment are safe. Tell the dentist you are pregnant so treatment, X-rays and medicines can be planned accordingly.
Can I have a tooth filled or removed during pregnancy?
Yes, when needed. Non-urgent work is usually planned for the second trimester, but pain or infection should be treated whenever it occurs.
Is dental local anaesthetic safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Local anaesthetic used in dentistry is considered safe in pregnancy.
Why are my gums bleeding more since I became pregnant?
Pregnancy hormones make gums more sensitive to plaque. Good daily cleaning and a scaling usually help.
Sources
- European Federation of Periodontology, Oral health and pregnancy: key messages for women
- HealthHub, Dental X-ray
Questions about your teeth?
Book a check-up. You will hear what we find, the options and the fee before anything is done.