Oral Health and Pregnancy
Take care of your teeth during all stages of pregnancy.
Pregnancy causes many changes in the body, including in the mouth. Taking care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy is safe and important. It also helps keep your baby healthy. This page explains why oral health matters, how to care for your teeth while pregnant, and how to support your baby’s oral health from the start.
Why does your oral health matter during pregnancy?
- Taking care of your teeth and mouth is an important part of prenatal care.
- Pregnancy can cause changes in your mouth that make cavities and gum disease more likely.
- Poor oral health during pregnancy can affect both the parent and the baby.
- Brushing, flossing, and seeing a dentist can help keep you and your baby healthy.
How can your oral health affect your baby?
- Choose healthy foods and limit sugar to keep you and your baby healthy.
- A healthy mouth during pregnancy helps keep your baby's teeth grow strong.
- You can pass cavity germs to your baby. This can cause cavities.
- Gum disease during pregnancy can raise the risk of a baby born too early or too small.
Safe dental care during pregnancy
- Brush your teeth - brush 2 times a day for 2 minutes (morning and night).
- Floss your teeth - floss between your teeth once a day.
- Drink water - drink plenty of water between meals.
- Use a small toothbrush: A small brush can help if brushing makes you feel sick.
- Rinse after you throw up: Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and rinse your mouth to protect your teeth.
Myth vs. Fact: visiting the dentist during pregnancy
| Myth |
Fact |
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You should not see the dentist while pregnant
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You should keep seeing the dentist while pregnant
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Dental x-rays are not safe while pregnant
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Dental x-rays are safe with proper protection
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Dental care is only safe in the second trimester
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Dental care is safe in all stages of pregnancy (the second trimester may feel more comfortable)
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When should I call the dentist?
Call your dentist if you have:
Treating dental problems early is safer than waiting. Here’s what to do in a dental emergency.
Your baby's oral health
0–6 months
- Your baby’s teeth start to form when you are 3–6 months pregnant.
- All 20 baby teeth are formed before birth (under the gums)
- Clean your baby’s gums even before teeth come in
Tip: After feeding, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth or gauze.
6–12 months
- Baby's first teeth usually come in around 6 months.
- Teething can make gums sore.
- To help with teething pain:
- Gently rub their gums with a clean finger, cool spoon, or moist gauze
- Give a clean, solid rubber teether (avoid plastic and liquid-filled teethers)
- Start brushing when the first tooth comes in
- Brush 2 times a day
- Use a soft, baby‑sized toothbrush
- Use a tiny amount of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice)
Other ways to protect your baby’s teeth
- Start brushing when the first tooth comes in
- Brush 2 times a day
- Use a soft, baby‑sized toothbrush
- Use a small amount of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice)
- Do not share utensils or food
- Do not clean pacifier with your mouth
- Do not put your baby to bed with milk or juice
First dental visit
When to go to the dentist:
- After the first tooth comes in
- Before your baby turns 1
What the dentist will do:
- Check your baby’s teeth and jaw
- Look for cavities or problems
- Clean teeth and show you how to care for them
Seeing the dentist early helps keep your child’s smile healthy.
Learn more about your child’s benefits and what’s covered:
Additional resources: