GUIDE
Yes — routine dental care is safe and recommended during pregnancy. Do not skip your dental appointments.
ACOG and the American Dental Association both recommend continuing regular dental care during pregnancy. Cleanings, fillings, crowns, and extractions are all safe. Local anesthesia (like lidocaine) is safe. Dental X-rays with a lead apron and thyroid collar are safe. Delaying necessary dental work can actually put you and your baby at greater risk.
Be prepared from day one
Pregnancy changes your oral health in several ways. Hormonal shifts increase the risk of pregnancy gingivitis (gum inflammation and bleeding) and pregnancy granulomas (benign growths on the gums). Morning sickness exposes teeth to stomach acid. Increased snacking and carbohydrate cravings feed cavity-causing bacteria.
More importantly, untreated periodontal disease during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. This is why ACOG specifically recommends dental care during pregnancy — it is not just safe, it is part of good prenatal care.
The old myth that dental work should be avoided during pregnancy is outdated and potentially harmful. Skipping necessary dental care can lead to infections that pose a far greater risk than any dental procedure.
Do not delay necessary dental work because of pregnancy. The risks of untreated dental problems outweigh the negligible risks of treatment.
These are purely elective. There is no evidence they are harmful, but there is no reason they cannot wait.
While dental care is safe throughout pregnancy, the second trimester (weeks 14-27) is the ideal time for longer procedures. First-trimester nausea can make dental work uncomfortable, and the third trimester can be physically uncomfortable lying back in the dental chair for extended periods. Routine cleanings are comfortable in any trimester.
Prevention is the best strategy. Good home care plus regular professional cleanings minimize the need for more involved procedures.
Dental care during pregnancy is safe, recommended, and important. Do not skip your routine cleanings, do not delay necessary treatment, and do not fear dental X-rays or local anesthesia. Your dentist is trained to work with pregnant patients and will take appropriate precautions.
For safe medication options for dental pain, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the recommended pain reliever. Avoid ibuprofen. For a complete list of safe and unsafe medications, see our pregnancy-safe medications guide. For your full prenatal care timeline, see our prenatal visit schedule.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your pregnancy.
