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Cavity Free at Three Prenatal Pamphlet (English)

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Keeping Your Teeth Healthy During Pregnancy

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Why are my teeth important during pregnancy?
  • Your baby’s teeth begin to develop as early as the third month of pregnancy.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet to help your baby’s first teeth.
  • Because of pregnancy hormones, you are more likely to have swollen and inflamed gums (gingivitis), which can lead to gum disease.
  • Research shows that pregnant people who have gum disease may be more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.
Is dental work safe during pregnancy?
  • Yes! Routine dental visits, X-rays and local anesthetics are safe during pregnancy.
  • Make an appointment to see your dentist early in pregnancy.
  • Don’t be afraid to get dental care if you need it! Your oral health can affect the health of your baby.
How should I take care of my mouth while pregnant?
  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss daily.
  • Drink tap water with fluoride.
  • Choose drinks and snacks low in sugar, especially between meals.
  • Rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with a cup of water after vomiting.
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How can I help my baby have a healthy smile?
  • Good oral care starts before your baby gets their first teeth.
  • You can help keep your baby from getting the germs that lead to cavities.
  • Breast is best. Breast-fed babies have healthier, straighter teeth.
  • If your baby drinks from a bottle, only put milk, formula or water in their bottle.
  • Never let your baby fall asleep with a bottle.
  • Schedule your baby’s first dental visit before his or her first birthday.
  • Keep your teeth healthy too. If you have cavities, your child is more likely to have cavities. Cavity causing germs can spread from your mouth to your baby’s mouth by sharing spoons or licking your child’s pacifier.
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2016 Edition

This resource is owned by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and is not to be modified.

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Funders and Support

Thanks to our funders for their support: Caring for Colorado Foundation, The Colorado Health Foundation; The Colorado Trust; Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation; Kaiser Permanente; Rose Community Foundation.

This project was supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Grant Number: H47MC28479. Information/content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.