Dental Treatment During Pregnancy: What Is Safe and When?

Why do gums bleed during pregnancy?

Pregnancy hormones make the gums react more strongly to the layer of bacteria on the teeth (plaque), so they become red, swollen and bleed easily when brushed. This is called pregnancy gingivitis. It is common, often starts in the early months and can peak mid-pregnancy.

The good news is that regular care eases it considerably, while neglecting it can lead to deeper inflammation of the tissues that support the teeth. Occasionally a red, fleshy lump called a pregnancy tumour appears on the gum. It is benign and usually disappears after delivery, but a dentist should examine it.

When is the best time for dental treatment in pregnancy?

Check-ups and cleaning are fine at any stage. For non-urgent treatment such as fillings, many dentists prefer the second trimester, roughly months four to six, when nausea eases and sitting in the chair is more comfortable.

In the third trimester, lying flat for long periods can be difficult, so visits are kept shorter and your position is adjusted. Cosmetic treatments such as whitening are usually postponed until after the birth. Severe pain, infection or swelling should never be postponed at any stage, because an untreated infection can be more harmful to mother and baby than the treatment itself.

Are X-rays and local anaesthetic safe in pregnancy?

Dental X-rays use very low doses aimed at the mouth, and health bodies consider them safe in pregnancy when needed, with a thyroid collar or abdominal shield at the dentist's discretion. Your dentist will only take them when they are necessary for diagnosis or treatment.

Local anaesthetic used in dental clinics is also generally considered safe. For painkillers and antibiotics, your dentist will choose only those suitable in pregnancy, and all of them require a prescription. Tell your dentist how far along you are and about every medicine you take; your dentist will decide what suits you, coordinating with your doctor when needed. Never take medication on your own.

How can I protect my teeth from morning sickness?

Frequent vomiting exposes the teeth to stomach acid, which can weaken enamel over time. You may want to brush straight away, but that increases wear because enamel is temporarily soft. Try these steps instead:

If severe vomiting continues for a long time, tell your doctor and your dentist; your dentist may suggest extra protection for the enamel, such as a topical fluoride treatment.

• After vomiting, rinse with water or with water mixed with a teaspoon of baking soda.
• Wait about an hour before brushing.
• If brushing triggers nausea, use a small-headed brush and a mild-flavoured toothpaste, and brush slowly.
• Eat small, frequent meals and cut down on sugary snacks in between.

Does my oral health affect my baby's teeth?

Your baby's teeth start forming during pregnancy, so your body needs a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and protein, along with any supplements your doctor prescribes. Decay-causing bacteria can also pass from mother to baby after birth, for example by sharing a spoon or cleaning a dummy in your mouth.

So treating your own decay before the birth protects your baby too. After delivery, wipe your baby's gums with clean gauze, start brushing when the first tooth appears, and plan the first dental visit when the first teeth come through or before the first birthday.