Oral Health and Pregnancy: The Hidden Risk to Mothers and Babies
- Hidden dental infections threaten your pregnancy
- Simple dental care protects you and baby
- Reduce preterm birth risk by up to 50%
Protect Mothers & Babies Today
Your gift educates families on the dangers of hidden dental infections during pregnancy.
Why This Video Matters
Dr. Charles W. Reinertsen reveals the critical link between oral infections and pregnancy complications that every expecting mother needs to know.
40%
of pregnant women have gum disease
50%
reduction in preterm birth risk
90%
of infections have no pain
Watch: How Cavities During Pregnancy Affect More Than Your Teeth
Protect Your Baby Now:
Know the Myths vs. Facts About Gum Disease
Myth
“If it doesn’t hurt, my gums are fine.”
Fact
Lack of pain ≠ healthy; gum disease is often painless and linked with pregnancy complications. Ask your dentist to check your gums at every trimester visit and keep up daily home care.
Myth
“A quick brush is enough while I’m pregnant.”
Fact
Effective home care takes
8–10 minutes once daily to remove harmful bacteria. Commit to a full routine of brushing, flossing/irrigating, and probiotics each day.
Myth
“Bleeding gums in pregnancy is normal. I don’t have to worry about it.”
Fact
Bleeding when brushing or flossing is an early sign of gum disease. Schedule a dental exam and professional cleaning to protect you and your baby.
Myth
“If my teeth look clean, I’m safe.”
Fact
Cleaning only the visible surfaces won’t stop disease under the gums. Request a periodontal evaluation to detect hidden infections early.
What the Research Says
Up to 40% of pregnant women experience gum disease. Studies show that untreated gum infections are associated with higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight [ACOG, 2013; CDC, 2020]. Oral bacteria can cross the placental barrier, endangering both mother and child.
Treating gum disease during pregnancy is safe, effective, & recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Dental Association (ADA). Preventive dental care helps protect pregnancies.
40% of pregnant women have gum disease
Linked to preterm birth & low birth weight
Oral bacteria can cross the placenta
Safe dental care during pregnancy recommended
40% of pregnant women
have gum disease
Oral bacteria can cross the placenta
Linked to preterm birth & low birth weight
Safe dental care during pregnancy recommended
First Trimester
- Rinse with baking soda after morning sickness
- Schedule dental checkup early
- Start gentle daily routine
Second Trimester
- Best time for dental treatment
- Watch for puffier, bleeding gums
- Stay consistent with brushing & flossing
Third Trimester
- Focus on daily oral hygiene
- Eat calcium-rich foods + prenatal vitamin
- Keep up dental visits and any needed treatments
Your Pregnancy Dental Care Timeline
Learn More About Pregnancy & Oral Health
Why oral health matters to your well-being
Why you need to properly care for your child’s baby teeth
How to help your kids build a lifetime of love for oral hygiene
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Systemic Health & Oral Health
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For Partners & Family : How You Can Help
Support Her Health
- Schedule dental appointments
- Remind about daily care
- Gift a "Healthy Mama Kit"
Family Oral Health
- Check everyone's dental health
- Share this information
- Make it a family priority
Be Her Advocate
- Attend appointments together
- Ask healthcare providers
- Download our fact sheet
What You Can Do Now
- Brush and clean in between your teeth daily — gum care is especially important during pregnancy
- Schedule at least one preventive dental visit during pregnancy
- Ask your OB/GYN about safe dental care
- Don't ignore tooth pain — early treatment protects both you and baby
Critical Questions About Oral Health and Heart Disease
Is dental care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Preventive and restorative dental treatment is safe during all stages of pregnancy (ACOG, ADA).
Should I avoid X-rays?
Modern digital X-rays use extremely low radiation and are considered safe during pregnancy. Lead shielding is no longer necessary, but your dentist will take every precaution for your comfort and only take X-rays when clinically needed.
Which trimester is best for dental work?
The second trimester is often most comfortable, but care can be provided at any stage if needed.
Can gum disease really affect my baby?
Research shows links between untreated gum disease and increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
What if I have severe tooth pain while pregnant?
Consult your dentist immediately. Temporary safe remedies exist, but treatment is important.
Do I still need dental checkups if I don’t have any pain?
Yes. Gum disease is often painless, yet infections can spread through the bloodstream and affect pregnancy. Regular dental visits during pregnancy help catch silent problems early.
