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.
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?
- Schedule a dentist appointment even before you are pregnant or as soon as you know you are pregnant.
- Dental procedures are safe during pregnancy
- Pregnancy gingivitis is caused by the increase of hormones due to pregnancy. Your gums may look red, be swollen and may bleed when you brush your teeth. Tooth decay is an infection. Both can affect you and your baby.
- Watch this short video with tips on how you and your baby can have a healthy mouth.
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.
MOHealthNet
In Missouri, Medicaid covers dental visits during pregnancy. Learn more at MOHealthNet.
Healthy Teeth - Healthy Pregnancy
Healthy Teeth - Healthy Pregnancy - dental services covered by Medicaid.
Don’t have a dentist?
Don’t have a dentist? Visit Missouri Primary Care Association (MPCA)
Locate Low-Cost Dental Services
Maintaining your oral health shouldn't be a financial burden, regardless of your circumstances.
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.
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.