Pregnancy and Oral Health: Everything You Need to Know

Pregnancy is a time of incredible change—and not just for your growing baby. Your body, hormones, and immune system are working overtime, and that includes your mouth. Understanding how pregnancy impacts your oral health can help you protect your smile and support a healthy start for your baby.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the stages of pregnancy and oral health changes, morning sickness and your teeth, signs to look out for, potential risks, and how to care for your oral health during pregnancy.

Caring for oral health during pregnancy is more important than you think.

Oral Health and Pregnancy: What to Expect Trimester by Trimester

First Trimester

In the early weeks of pregnancy, hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive to plaque, often leading to swollen or bleeding gums. You may also experience increased saliva or dry mouth, a heightened gag reflex, and challenges brushing due to nausea or fatigue. Morning sickness can introduce stomach acid into the mouth, which may weaken enamel and increase the risk of decay.

Second Trimester

Gum inflammation, known as pregnancy gingivitis, often peaks during the second trimester. You may also notice small, harmless gum swellings known as "pregnancy tumours." These are usually temporary and painless but are signs that your gums are reacting more strongly to plaque buildup.

Third Trimester

Fatigue and physical discomfort can make brushing and flossing feel like a chore. However, neglecting oral hygiene at this stage can increase your risk of periodontitis (advanced gum disease), which has been linked to pregnancy complications like preterm birth and low birth weight.

Morning Sickness and Oral Health

Morning sickness doesn’t just affect how you feel—it can also impact your teeth. Vomiting exposes your teeth to stomach acid, which weakens enamel and makes it easier for cavities to develop.

Tips for protecting your teeth:

• Rinse your mouth with water or a mix of water and baking soda after vomiting to neutralise acid.

• Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging softened enamel.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a bland toothpaste if strong flavours make brushing difficult.

• Take Xylitol mints to help neutralise acid in the mouth

Example of low foaming toothpaste, Oral 7

Xylitol mints as a prebiotic to neutralise acid

Signs of Oral Health Issues During Pregnancy

It’s important to pay attention to your oral health throughout pregnancy. Common signs that you may need support include:

• Bleeding or swollen gums when brushing or flossing

• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

• Gum lumps or swellings

• Receding gums or loose teeth

• Tooth sensitivity or discomfort

If you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to your oral health professional. Early care can prevent minor issues from becoming more serious.

Risks of Ignoring Oral Health During Pregnancy

Oral health issues during pregnancy can affect more than just your mouth. Research shows a connection between advanced gum disease and risks such as:

• Premature birth

• Low birth weight

• Poor maternal oral health postpartum

• Higher levels of bacteria passed to your baby after birth

Staying on top of your oral hygiene routine and booking regular appointments is one of the easiest ways to support a healthy pregnancy.

How mum's oral health can affect baby's health

How to Care for Your Oral Health While Pregnant

Protecting your teeth and gums during pregnancy doesn’t require complicated routines—just consistency and support.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline

• Choose nutritious, tooth-friendly snacks like vegetables, cheese, and whole grains

• Limit sugary or acidic foods and drinks

• Stay hydrated to support healthy saliva flow

• Continue regular visits with your oral health therapist or dental hygienist—it’s safe and encouraged during pregnancy

Pregnancy and Oral Health: Your Questions Answered

Is it safe to get dental treatment while pregnant?

Yes. Routine dental care—including hygiene appointments, cleanings, and check-ups—is safe and encouraged during all stages of pregnancy. The second trimester is often the most comfortable time to schedule a visit.

My gums are bleeding—should I stop flossing?

What if brushing makes me gag?

Is high fluoride toothpaste safe to use during pregnancy?

Should I delay dental care until after pregnancy?

Mobile Dental Hygienist for Wellington Mums

At Wholesome Smiles, your trusted Wellington dental hygienist, we make dental hygiene easy, accessible, and stress-free during pregnancy. If you're experiencing discomfort, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, or simply prefer the comfort of home, we bring gentle, personalised dental care directly to your door. Our mobile dental hygiene service ensures you can maintain a healthy smile without the need to travel or wait in a clinic—supporting your wellbeing wherever you are in Wellington.

If you’re pregnant or planning to be, we’d love to support your smile every If you’re pregnant or planning to be, we’d love to support your smile every step of the way. Book a home visit or get in touch today.

Or contact us at 020 4005 4112 and hello@wholesomesmiles.co.nz