Pregnancy affects more than just your body — it can impact your oral health, too. From gum sensitivity to increased risk of cavities, knowing how to care for your smile is essential during every stage of pregnancy. At Odontología profesional, with multiple locations across Utah, we’re here to help moms-to-be protect their health and their baby’s.
Why Oral Health Matters During Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase your risk of gum disease, cavities, and even pregnancy-related gingivitis. These conditions don’t just affect your mouth — they can also impact your overall health and even your baby’s health.
Common Pregnancy-Related Dental Issues
Embarazo Gingivitis: Swollen, bleeding gums are common due to hormonal changes. Left untreated, this can lead to more serious gum disease.
Increased Risk of Tooth Decay: Morning sickness and changes in diet can lead to more acid exposure and sugar intake, putting your enamel at risk.
“Pregnancy Tumors”: Small, non-cancerous growths on the gums may develop, especially during the second trimester. They’re usually harmless and often disappear after birth.
Safe and Essential: Dental Visits During Pregnancy
According to the American Dental Association, routine dental care — including cleanings, exams, and necessary procedures like fillings — is safe and important during pregnancy. Always inform your dentist that you are pregnant and share any medications or prenatal vitamins you’re taking.
En Odontología profesional, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety. We work closely with your OB-GYN if needed and avoid X-rays unless absolutely necessary.
Tips for a Healthy Smile During Pregnancy
- Brush twice daily con fluoruro toothpaste
- Floss once a day
- Rinse with a fluoruro mouthwash if recommended
- Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet
- Stay hydrated and rinse after morning sickness episodes
Recommendations
- Discuss oral health with all patients, including those who are pregnant or in the postpartum period.
- Advise women that oral health care improves a woman’s general health through her lifespan and may also reduce the transmission of potentially caries-producing oral bacteria from mothers to their infants.
- Conduct an oral health assessment during the first prenatal visit.
- Reassure patients that prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral conditions, including dental X-rays (with shielding of the abdomen and thyroid) and local anesthesia (lidocaine with or without epinephrine), are safe during pregnancy.
- Inform women that conditions that require immediate treatment, such as extractions, root canals, and restoration (amalgam or composite) of untreated caries, may be managed at any time during pregnancy. Delaying treatment may result in more complex problems.
- For patients with vomiting secondary to morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum, or gastric reflux during late pregnancy, the use of antacids or rinsing with a baking soda solution (ie, 1 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in 1 cup of water) may help neutralize the associated acid.
- Be aware of patients’ health coverage for dental services during pregnancy so that referrals to the appropriate dental provider can be made. Note that each state’s Medicaid coverage for oral health may vary considerably.
- Develop a working relationship with local dentists. Refer patients for oral health care with a written note or call, as would be the practice with referrals to any medical specialist.
- Advocate for broader oral health coverage of women before, during, and after pregnancy. Pregnancy is a unique time when women may gain access to oral health coverage.
- Reinforce routine oral health maintenance, such as limiting sugary foods and drinks, brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing once daily, and dental visits twice a year.
We’re Here for Utah Families
By understanding how pregnancy can affect your oral health, expectant mothers can take proactive steps to protect their teeth and gums during this important time. At Odontología profesional, we’re committed to supporting you with safe, compassionate, and effective dental care throughout your pregnancy.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant and have questions about maintaining a healthy smile, we invite you to reach out to us at 801-785-8000. Our experienced and caring team — located in multiple offices across Utah
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