--- title: "Dental Work During Pregnancy: What ADA and ACOG Say" description: "Can you have dental work while pregnant? See what the ADA and ACOG say about cleanings, X-rays, numbing, fillings, and nitrous oxide, and what to tell them." url: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/dental-work-during-pregnancy publisher: Town Center Dental phone: +1-636-273-5866 quote: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment --- # Dental Work During Pregnancy: What ADA and ACOG Say The ADA and ACOG both say dental care is an important part of prenatal health. The ADA says routine care, X-rays, and local anesthesia are considered safe at any point in pregnancy. Tell your dental team you are pregnant and share your due date. Your dentist and obstetrician can answer personal questions. PreventionPublished October 26, 20264 min read ## Can I have dental work while I am pregnant? Yes, in general. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says oral health is an important component of general health and should be maintained during pregnancy and through a woman’s lifespan. The American Dental Association (ADA) says oral health care, including dental radiographs and local anesthesia, is considered safe at any point during pregnancy. The ADA also says it agrees with ACOG that emergency treatments, such as extractions, root canals, or restorations, can be performed during pregnancy, and that delaying treatment may lead to more complex problems. This post is general information, not advice for your own pregnancy. Your dentist and your obstetrician can answer personal questions. ## What do the ADA and ACOG say about common treatments? The table sums up the main points from the two groups. Treatment What the sources say Cleanings and check-ups The ADA says preventive and diagnostic dental treatment is considered safe throughout pregnancy Fillings and other repairs The ADA says restorative treatment is considered safe throughout pregnancy [Dental X-rays](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/digital-x-ray) The ADA says radiographs are considered safe at any point; MouthHealthy says doses are very low and the team takes steps to limit exposure [Local anesthetic](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/local-anesthetic) The ADA says it is considered safe at any point during pregnancy Emergency treatment The ADA and ACOG agree it can be performed during pregnancy Nitrous oxide The ADA says pregnant women should avoid exposure High-risk pregnancy MouthHealthy says your dentist or doctor might recommend postponing certain treatments The last two rows matter. Nitrous oxide is the one item that is handled differently. Read our post on [nitrous oxide](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/nitrous-oxide-at-the-dentist-side-effects-and-safety) for more. For a high-risk pregnancy, your dentist will want to speak with your doctor. ## What should I tell my dental team? MouthHealthy says to let your dental team know how far along you are and to share your expected due date. It says this can help them plan care and look for signs of pregnancy-related issues in your mouth. Tell them even if you are not 100% sure yet. Also share: - Every medicine and supplement you take - Whether your doctor calls your pregnancy high-risk - Any nausea or vomiting - Any bleeding or tenderness in your gums MouthHealthy says that if your pregnancy has been classified as high-risk, your dentist or doctor might recommend that certain treatments be postponed. Ask your doctor about your own case. ## Why do gums change during pregnancy? MouthHealthy says higher hormone levels during pregnancy affect the way your gums react to plaque, the sticky film that builds up on teeth. Some people develop swollen, tender gums that may bleed a little when they brush or floss. This is a form of [gingivitis](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/gingivitis). Since gingivitis can lead to more serious gum disease, your dentist will recommend ways to treat any symptoms. MouthHealthy says you may need more frequent cleanings during pregnancy, or an antimicrobial mouth rinse. A [dental cleaning](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-cleaning-prophylaxis) removes plaque you cannot reach at home. ## What does morning sickness do to teeth? MouthHealthy says morning sickness can increase the level of acids in your mouth. Acid can damage the shiny, protective coating on your teeth, called enamel. The ADA says patients should be encouraged to avoid toothbrushing immediately after vomiting, because it exposes the teeth to stomach acid. It suggests rinsing with a diluted solution of 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of baking soda to neutralize the acid. Ask your dentist what fits your own situation. Our glossary explains [enamel erosion](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/enamel-erosion). ## Does my oral health affect my baby? ACOG says optimal maternal oral hygiene during the perinatal period may decrease the amount of caries-producing oral bacteria transmitted to the infant during common parenting behavior, such as sharing spoons. In other words, a healthier mouth for you may help your baby’s mouth as well. ACOG also notes that some studies have shown a possible association between gum infection and preterm birth, but evidence has failed to show any improvement in outcomes after dental treatment during pregnancy. It adds that these studies did not raise concern about the safety of dental services during pregnancy. For a broader look, read our guide on [oral health and overall health](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/oral-health-and-overall-health). ## What if I have a toothache or a broken tooth while pregnant? Call your dentist and say you are pregnant. The ADA and ACOG agree that emergency treatments can be performed during pregnancy and that delaying treatment may lead to more complex problems. MouthHealthy says that for all dental emergencies it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Our [dental emergency guide](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/dental-emergency-guide) lists the signs that need fast care. Go to an emergency room for trouble breathing or swallowing. ## What questions can I bring to my dentist and obstetrician? - Is my pregnancy considered high-risk, and does that change my dental plan? - Which treatments should happen now, and which can wait? - Is any medicine in my dental plan a concern for my pregnancy? - How can I protect my teeth if I have morning sickness? - Do I need more frequent cleanings? Your two providers can answer these for your own case. The sources in this post give general information only. ## When should I schedule a visit? Many people book a check-up as soon as they learn they are pregnant. MouthHealthy says it is a good idea to take care of cleanings and needed procedures, such as fillings, before your baby arrives. Ask your dentist and obstetrician about timing for your case. Town Center Dental treats every member of the family, from infants to grandparents, as its [family dentistry](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/services/family-dentistry) page describes. ## Next step To book a check-up or ask a question about your visit, call Town Center Dental at (636) 273-5866 or [request an appointment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment). Tell the office you are pregnant when you call. Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect. ## Frequently asked questions ### Can I see the dentist while pregnant? Yes. MouthHealthy, the ADA's public site, says experts at the ADA, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Pediatrics encourage you to see your dentist while you are expecting. Tell the office you are pregnant and share your due date. ### Are dental X-rays allowed during pregnancy? The ADA says dental radiographs are considered safe at any point during pregnancy. MouthHealthy says dental X-rays give very low doses of radiation and that your dental team will take steps to minimize exposure. Ask your dentist and obstetrician if you have concerns. ### Is numbing medicine okay while pregnant? The ADA says being given local anesthesia is considered safe at any point during pregnancy. Your dentist will review the medicine and your health history with you. Ask your obstetrician if you have questions about your own pregnancy. ### Why do my gums bleed more during pregnancy? MouthHealthy says higher hormone levels during pregnancy change how your gums react to plaque. That can cause swollen, tender gums that bleed a little when you brush or floss. Tell your dentist, who may suggest more frequent cleanings. ## Terms on this page - [Gum disease (periodontal disease)](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/gum-disease-periodontal-disease) - [Dental cleaning (prophylaxis)](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-cleaning-prophylaxis) - [Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/nitrous-oxide-laughing-gas) - [Dental emergency](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-emergency) - [Local anesthetic](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/local-anesthetic) - [Enamel erosion](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/enamel-erosion) - [Gums (gingiva)](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/gums-gingiva) - [Oral hygiene](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/oral-hygiene) - [Gingivitis](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/gingivitis) - [Toothache](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/toothache) ## Sources 1. [ACOG: Oral Health Care During Pregnancy and Through the Lifespan](https://www.acog.org/clinical/guidance/committee-opinion/2013/08/oral-health-care-during-pregnancy-and-through-the-lifespan/) 2. [ACOG: Oral Health Care During Pregnancy and Through the Lifespan](https://www.acog.org/clinical/guidance/committee-opinion/2013/08/oral-health-care-during-pregnancy-and-through-the-lifespan/) 3. [ACOG: Oral Health Care During Pregnancy and Through the Lifespan](https://www.acog.org/clinical/guidance/committee-opinion/2013/08/oral-health-care-during-pregnancy-and-through-the-lifespan/) 4. [American Dental Association: Pregnancy](https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/pregnancy) 5. [American Dental Association: Pregnancy](https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/pregnancy) 6. [American Dental Association: Pregnancy](https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/pregnancy) 7. [American Dental Association: Pregnancy](https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/pregnancy) 8. [American Dental Association: Pregnancy](https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/pregnancy) 9. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 10. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 11. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 12. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 13. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 14. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 15. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Pregnancy Dental Concerns](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/pregnancy/pregnancy-dental-concerns) 16. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Dental Emergency](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/dental-care/dental-emergencies) 17. [MedlinePlus (NIH): Ludwig angina](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001047.htm) 18. [American Dental Association: Nitrous Oxide Safety for Pregnant Dental Staff and Patients](https://www.ada.org/resources/practice/practice-management/nitrous-oxide-safety-for-pregnant-dental-staff-and-patients) Written by Town Center Dental and checked against the sources above on October 26, 2026. Dental guidance changes, so check the linked page, and ask your dentist about your own care. ## Keep reading - [Nitrous Oxide at the Dentist: Side Effects and SafetyNitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a gas you breathe through a small nose mask to help you relax. You stay awake. You may feel light-headed or have tingling, and the effects wear off soon after the mask is removed. Vomiting is the most common reported side effect. Tell your dentist about your health first.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/nitrous-oxide-at-the-dentist-side-effects-and-safety) - [Dental Emergencies: What Counts, What To Do First, and Who To CallA dental emergency is a mouth problem that needs care right away, such as uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain that medicine does not ease, or a knocked-out tooth. Call 911 or go to an emergency room for trouble breathing or swallowing. Otherwise, call your dentist. Town Center Dental is closed Friday to Sunday.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/dental-emergency-guide) - [Mouth and Body: What Is Known About Gum Disease, Diabetes and Heart HealthGum disease is linked to other health conditions, but a link is not proof of cause. The strongest evidence is for diabetes: each can make the other harder to control, and a Cochrane review found that treating gum disease lowered blood sugar markers. For heart disease, studies show an association, not proven cause.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/oral-health-and-overall-health) - [Dental X-Rays: How Much Radiation, Which Types and How OftenDental X-rays use very low doses of radiation, and the ADA says the risk of harm is very small. Dentists order them based on your age, risk for disease and symptoms, so you may not need them at every visit. Bitewing, periapical and panoramic images are the most common types.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/dental-xrays-safety-frequency) - [Sedation Dentistry: How Safe Is It, and Which Type Fits Your Visit?Sedation dentistry uses medicine to help you feel calm during dental care. Common types are nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation and general anesthesia. Missouri requires a state permit for dentists who give deeper levels. Town Center Dental describes its own sedation care on its sedation page. Your dentist will talk with you about what fits you.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/sedation-dentistry-guide) - [What Happens at a Dental Exam and CleaningA typical dental visit includes a health history, a cleaning by a hygienist, an exam by the dentist, an oral cancer check and, at some visits, X-rays. The hygienist scrapes off plaque and tartar, polishes and flosses. The dentist then reviews findings and any treatment options with you.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/what-to-expect-dental-visit) ## Ready when you are [Request an appointment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment)[Call (636) 273-5866](tel:+1-636-273-5866)