Pregnancy brings exciting changes—and some surprising challenges for your smile. Here’s how to protect your oral health every step of the way.
Pregnancy is one of the most transformative periods in a woman’s life, but while you’re tracking baby milestones and doctor visits, it’s easy to overlook your teeth and gums. At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we help expectant mothers stay healthy by providing gentle, personalized dental care during every stage of pregnancy. Whether you’re brushing through morning sickness or wondering if it’s safe to schedule a cleaning, here’s everything you need to know to keep your mouth healthy for you and your baby.
How Hormones Change Your Oral Health During Pregnancy
Your body is working overtime to support a growing baby, and that means hormones like estrogen and progesterone are on the rise. These hormone shifts directly affect your gums, often making them more sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding. This condition, known as pregnancy gingivitis, affects up to 75% of pregnant women and can start as early as the first trimester.
Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more serious gum disease, which has been linked to pregnancy complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. That’s why maintaining healthy gums is just as important as taking your prenatal vitamins.
What Oral Symptoms to Watch for While Pregnant
While it’s normal to experience minor changes during pregnancy, certain symptoms should prompt a dental visit:
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Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
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Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Increased tooth sensitivity
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Loose teeth or visible gum recession
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait. Dr. Tyson Pickett, DDS FAGD and the team at Pickett Family Dental are experienced in caring for pregnant patients and can help prevent small problems from turning into major issues.
Safe Dental Treatments During Pregnancy
One of the most common questions we hear is: “Can I go to the dentist while I’m pregnant?” The answer is yes—routine cleanings, exams, and even many dental procedures are completely safe during pregnancy. In fact, the second trimester is often the best time for cleanings, fillings, or other minor treatments since nausea typically subsides and you’re not too close to your due date.
Dental X-rays are generally avoided unless absolutely necessary, but modern digital X-rays are safe and can be done with proper shielding if needed for diagnosing urgent issues.
If you’re dealing with gum disease, tooth pain, or a dental infection, it’s important not to delay care. Infections and inflammation pose far greater risks to you and your baby than having a filling or tooth extraction during pregnancy.
How Morning Sickness and Cravings Impact Your Teeth
Morning sickness affects over half of all pregnant women—and frequent vomiting can weaken tooth enamel. When stomach acid coats your teeth, it erodes the protective enamel and increases the risk of cavities.
The best thing to do after vomiting is rinse your mouth with water or a solution of baking soda and water (1 tsp of baking soda in a cup of water) to neutralize the acid. Avoid brushing right away, as brushing immediately can spread the acid and cause further enamel damage. Wait 30 minutes before brushing with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
Cravings for sweets and frequent snacking are another concern. Bacteria feed on sugar and produce acid, which leads to tooth decay. Try to limit sugary treats and rinse your mouth with water after snacks. Eating cheese, nuts, and crunchy vegetables can also help neutralize acid and promote healthy saliva flow.
Why Dental Health Affects Your Baby Too
Oral health isn’t just about your smile—it can influence your baby’s health too. Untreated gum disease has been associated with an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Additionally, cavities are caused by bacteria that can be passed to your baby after birth. That means caring for your mouth now can help protect your newborn later.
Establishing good dental habits during pregnancy lays the groundwork for teaching your child about oral health early on. It also ensures that you’re not dealing with dental emergencies when you’re busy caring for a newborn.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Teeth During Pregnancy
Even with all the changes happening in your body, daily dental care doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple ways to stay on top of your oral health:
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Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and soft toothbrush
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Floss once a day, even if your gums are sensitive (gentle is key)
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Rinse with an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash if recommended
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Limit sugary snacks and beverages
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Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support saliva production
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Schedule a dental check-up early in pregnancy or as soon as you find out you’re expecting
Your dental team is a partner in your overall health—and at Pickett Family Dental, we’re here to help you feel confident and supported throughout your pregnancy journey.
If you’re looking for personalized dental care during your pregnancy, call Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX today at (817) 431-5514 or schedule your visit online. We’re proud to care for growing families with compassion and expert guidance—because your smile matters, before and after baby arrives.
