Pregnancy and Dental Health

Good dental health is important at every stage of life,
but even more so during pregnancy!

Poor dental health and gum disease have been linked to pre-term births, low birthweight babies and preeclampsia. Do what is best for you and your baby and practice good dental health during your pregnancy.
pregnant mom

How do I make sure I have good dental health during pregnancy?

  • Visit the dentist regularly
  • Brush teeth twice a day & floss daily
  • Eat healthy foods
  • Practice other good healthy behaviors (exercise, stop using tobacco, drugs and alcohol)

Did you know that it is important to visit your dentist when you are pregnant?

Visiting the dentist when you are pregnant is safe.

Current guidelines say that putting off needed dental treatment is more risky than it is to have dental treatment, including x-rays. If dental disease is not treated during pregnancy, it can lead to more serious health problems like infection, pain and inability to eat.

Tell your dentist if you:

  • Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or even think you might be pregnant.
  • Have had changes in your health or in the medicines you take since your last dental appointment.
  • Have been told about any risks linked to your pregnancy or instructions from your physician or obstetrician (OB/GYN).
  • Have other medical conditions.

Your dentist can talk with your doctor about any treatment you may need. Have your teeth cleaned and any treatment before you become pregnant. This can help lower your risk of a dental emergency during your pregnancy and other problems.

Taking medication during pregnancy is safe
If you need pain relievers or antibiotics for dental needs, your dentist may talk with your doctor to determine which medicines you can take safely during your pregnancy. If you have any concerns talk with your dentist and doctor.

Routine dental x-rays are generally safe during pregnancy
Radiation from dental x-rays is very low. Your dentist will discuss the need for an x-ray exam if it is needed and will take steps to reduce your radiation exposure.

In Missouri, Medicaid covers dental visits during pregnancy.
Learn more at MOHealthNet.

Healthy Teeth - Healthy Pregnancy - dental services covered by Medicaid.

Don’t have a dentist? Go to Locate Low-Cost Dental Services or ADA Find a Dentist.

Now, you're brushing for two. Poster.

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What you eat can affect your baby’s teeth

Eat nutritious foods
They provide important vitamins and minerals and contain less sugar, which can damage your teeth.

Eat less foods that contain sugar
Sugar helps bacteria in the mouth cause cavities.

pregnant mom cutting veggies

Chew gum with xylitol or sugar free gum
Gum or mints with xylitol helps to decrease the amount of plaque on your teeth and makes it easier to remove the plaque when brushing.

Drink fluoridated water
It is effective in helping to prevent cavities by strengthening your teeth and it is safe for you and your baby.

Morning sickness can weaken tooth enamel
You can rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with a cup of water. Wait 30 minutes to one hour before brushing your teeth.

Now your brushing for two poster

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Learn more about dental health and pregnancy

Learn more about caring for your baby’s dental health

Guidance for Prenatal Care Health Professionals and Oral Health Professionals

 

Useful Websites and Phone Numbers

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Pregnancy and Beyond (Book free for Missouri residents.)

Newborn Health
Information specific for newborn infants and children in Missouri.

TEL-LINK at 800-TEL-LINK (800-835-5465)
TEL-Link provides information and referral for maternal and child health care for Missouri residents. Operators
can connect you with community services that are available. TEL-LINK is answered weekdays form 8 am to 5 pm.

Text4baby
Receive timely health messages throughout your pregnancy and your baby’s first year, via text messages or the app. Text4baby is a free mobile educational program. You will receive free messages every week timed to your due date and your baby’s date of birth.

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