A Healthier Mouth Means a Healthier Baby
Protect Your Baby’s Health by Caring for Your Smile During Pregnancy
Pregnancy changes everything—from your body to your emotions to how you care for yourself. With all the focus on prenatal vitamins, ultrasounds, and baby prep, your oral health might feel like just one more thing on the list.
But it’s not just about you anymore. Your mouth’s health can actually affect your growing baby’s health.
At Artistic Dentistry in Houston, we’re here to ensure your pregnancy journey includes a healthy smile—for you and your little one.
Why Pregnancy Increases the Risk of Dental Problems
Hormone shifts during pregnancy and significantly rising progesterone levels can cause your gums to become extra sensitive to plaque and bacteria. This can lead to a condition called pregnancy gingivitis, which affects up to 50% of pregnant women.
Other common oral health concerns during pregnancy include:
- Tooth decay from morning sickness
- Swollen, bleeding gums
- Pregnancy tumors (non-cancerous overgrowths of gum tissue)
- Increased risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia linked to gum disease.
If you don’t brush, floss, or see your dentist regularly, these minor issues can become much more significant problems—for your health and your baby’s.
How Oral Health Affects Pregnancy and Baby’s Development
Untreated gum disease has been linked to:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Gestational diabetes
- Preeclampsia
- There is a higher risk of oral infections passed from mom to baby
That’s why dental care during pregnancy is not only safe—it’s essential.
What to Expect at the Dentist During Pregnancy
Modern dentistry is gentle, safe, and supportive for expecting moms. If you need a filling or crown, your dentist will work closely with you and your OB-GYN to ensure everything is safe and timed right.
Here’s what we want you to know:
- The second trimester is the safest time for treatment
- Digital X-rays use minimal radiation and are safe with a lead apron
- Local anesthetics like Lidocaine have been proven safe in pregnancy
- Preventive care like cleanings and exams may be scheduled more often
We always recommend sharing your complete medical and pregnancy history with your dental team so we can create a care plan that supports both you and your baby.
How to Protect Your Oral Health During Pregnancy
Daily care matters more than ever. Here are simple, safe habits that support your mouth and baby:
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day
- Floss daily—even if your gums bleed a little
- Rinse with salt water after morning sickness
- Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet
- Avoid sharing utensils or toothbrushes with others
- Stay hydrated with fluoridated water
- Keep your dental appointments and ask about an extra cleaning if needed
A Confident, Healthy Smile for Motherhood
We know pregnancy comes with many unknowns—but your dental health doesn’t have to be one of them. When you take care of your smile, you also care for your baby.
Our friendly team at Artistic Dentistry in Houston is here to support you through every stage of pregnancy, from the first trimester to those sweet newborn days.
Let’s work together to give your baby the healthiest start possible—starting with you.
