According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Perinatal Oral Health Guide, up to 60–75% of pregnant women experience gingivitis, primarily due to elevated progesterone and estrogen levels that increase the inflammatory response to plaque.
These changes, if unmanaged, can lead to periodontal disease, dental caries, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
Modern evidence confirms that oral care during pregnancy is both safe and essential.
Preventive treatments, diagnostic radiographs (with proper shielding), and most dental procedures can be performed safely throughout gestation.
The guide emphasizes the importance of interprofessional collaboration between dentists, obstetricians, and pharmacists to ensure appropriate medication use, patient comfort, and safety.
Furthermore, the document highlights best practices for prenatal oral health education, including nutrition counseling, fluoride exposure, and early detection of oral infections.
It provides updated recommendations on pharmacological management and dental anesthesia, helping clinicians make informed, evidence-based decisions tailored to each trimester.
📘 Dentists worldwide are encouraged to read the full Perinatal Oral Health Guide (PDF) from the Texas DSHS for detailed clinical recommendations and medication charts that support optimal oral health care for pregnant patients.
