Maintaining good dental health before and during pregnancy can help keep both you and your baby healthy. Regular dental visits are safe during pregnancy and can reduce the risk of gum disease, dental infections, and other complications.

Is it safe to see the dentist if I am pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to visit the dentist during pregnancy! Periodontal disease during pregnancy can increase risk of complications premature birth and low birth weight!

Pregnant patients are more susceptible to gum disease due to hormonal changes. Thus, dental cleanings are important before and during pregnancy. During your appointment, your dental team may check your blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can be a sign of a pregnancy-related concern that should be evaluated by your physician.

When is the best time to see the dentist if I am pregnant?

Second trimester (13-28 weeks). This is the ideal time for cleanings and non-urgent fillings or crowns. Second trimester balances safety of dental care with mother’s comfort.

This is when the uterus is lower than the umbilical region, so mothers are okay to be lied back without being too uncomfortable

You should ask for a pillow to be under your right hip. Why? The uterus can compress a large vein called the inferior vena cava when lying down reducing blood flow back to the heart. This can lead to “supine hypotensive syndrome”, which is when you become light-headed because blood flow is hindered.

When should I see the dentist if I have dental pain during pregnancy?

You should see the dentist immediately regardless of which trimester you are in. Dental pain can lead to increased need of painkillers, antibiotic, infections, and hospitalization. These are riskier for the fetus than dental care.

Are dental x-rays safe when pregnant?

Yes. Radiation from dental x-rays poses minimal risk to the fetus.

The mouth is far from the uterus, so very little radiation reaches the fetus. Dental offices also use lead aprons to cover the abdomen which further reduces exposure. Dental offices are also required to use the lowest dose of radiation required for their treatments.

If your treatment is not urgent and can be delayed until after pregnancy, then it is reasonable to also delay the x-rays for that treatment until after you give birth.

Is it okay to delay dental treatment if I am pregnant?

Non-urgent treatment (fillings or crowns) during the 3rd trimester can be delayed until after pregnancy if it does not pose a risk of pain/infection.

Ideally your dental treatment (fillings, crowns, extractions, root canals) should be done before becoming pregnant. However, if treatment is needed during pregnancy, then they should be done during the 2nd trimester, unless they are urgent (extractions or root canals).
Urgent treatment should never be delayed because of pregnancy.

Is laughing gas (nitrous oxide) safe during pregnancy?

Nitrous oxide is generally avoided during the first trimester because of potential risks to the developing fetus. If sedation is needed later in pregnancy, your dentist will consult with your obstetrician or physician to determine whether it is appropriate.

The final word…

Dental care is safe and recommended during pregnancy. Non-urgent treatment should be prioritized for the 2nd trimester. If you are in pain, you should see your dentist immediately to prevent complications. X-rays are safe during pregnancy with proper precautions and can be delayed if you have no urgent needs!

References:

1. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Oral health care for the pregnant pediatric dental patient. The Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry. Chicago, IL: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; 2025:354-63.