Oral health is an important part of prenatal care. Besides maintaining a routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily, its is strongly recommended to have your teeth professionally cleaned at least once during your pregnancy.

Pregnancy triggers numerous changes in your body, including an increase in blood flow by 30 to 50 percent. This increased circulation not only gives your cheeks that lovely glow but also influences other parts of your body, including your gums. With more blood circulating, the bacteria along your gumline get more nutrients, which might lead to swollen or tender gums that could bleed when you brush, even if you haven’t experienced gum disease before. Elevated estrogen and progesterone levels add to this gum sensitivity. This condition is known as pregnancy gingivitis, affecting about 50 percent of pregnant women.

Some women may also develop pyogenic granulomas or “pregnancy tumors” on their gums as a result of gingivitis. These are benign growths caused by inflammation—a response to irritants like plaque—and they typically resolve post-childbirth.

Can your oral health affect your baby?

Gum health is more significant than merely preventing discomfort. Recent studies suggest a strong link between gum disease or gingivitis and certain pregnancy risks. Women with severe gum disease are found to be up to seven times more likely to have significantly premature births (before 32 weeks) than those with healthy gums. Additionally, the risk of delivering before 37 weeks is three times higher for women with gingivitis. Such risks parallel those associated with heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy and even exceed those for smoking. Premature births carry numerous immediate and long-term health challenges for babies.

Apart from the risk of early deliveries, pregnancy gingivitis could also lead to delivering smaller babies, irrespective of whether they are premature or full-term. Research reveals that women with this condition are over three times likelier to have a baby with low birth weight, similar to the risks posed by smoking while pregnant.

But what causes gingivitis to contribute to early labor? The theory is that plaque-related bacteria can enter your bloodstream through the gums if you have gingivitis. This can trigger an immune response where your body produces prostaglandins, chemicals that can initiate labor by causing uterine contractions.

Should you go to the dentist while pregnant?

Absolutely! Keep up with your habitual dental care routine by brushing and flossing, and include a professional dental cleaning at least once during your pregnancy. Inform your dental care providers about your pregnancy or if you suspect you might be pregnant. If diagnosed with gum disease, I advise discussing scaling and root planing with your dentist—a method proven, in studies, to significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth. This procedure offers a deep cleaning down to the roots of your teeth, scraping and smoothing to prevent the regrowth of plaque.

The optimal period for a dental check-up is during the second trimester, because the baby’s development is most sensitive during the first trimester, and discomfort is likely to increase in the third. If dental issues arise at any point during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to address them with your dental professional promptly. Limiting major invasive dental procedures is wise, especially early on, but never delay necessary routine care, which is crucial for both your health and your baby’s well-being.

What about x-rays?

The American Dental Association advises against routine or elective x-rays during pregnancy. However, if x-rays are essential, ensure that you are provided with a leaded collar for your thyroid and a leaded apron to protect your abdomen, minimizing any risk.