AdministrativeDentalAugust 1, 2024

Dental care during pregnancy

This communication applies to dentists only.

We know that dental care is important during pregnancy as hormonal changes can increase the risk of dental disease.

  1. Before providing dental care to a pregnant patient, dentists should review the patient's medical history and ask about medications or supplements being taken to identify any potential risks or contraindications.
  2. Consult with the patient's obstetrician (OB/GYN) to discuss any concerns or potential risks related to dental care during pregnancy. The OB/GYN can provide guidance and help determine the safest approach to dental treatment.
  3. Depending on the patient's stage of pregnancy and medical history, you may need to modify the approach to treatment.
  4. If anesthesia is needed, use the appropriate type and dosage. Local anesthesia is generally safe during pregnancy. General anesthesia should be used with caution and only when necessary.
  5. Pregnant women may need to be positioned differently in the dental chair to ensure their comfort and safety such as use of a pillow or wedge to support the patient's back and reduce pressure on the abdomen.
  6. Reinforce proper oral hygiene and encourage pregnant patients to brush twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of: In California: Blue Cross of California and Blue Cross of California Partnership Plan, Inc. Anthem BC Health Insurance Company is the trade name of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. Blue Cross of California, Blue Cross of California Partnership Plan, Inc., Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company, and Anthem BC Health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. In 11 northeastern counties of New York: Anthem HealthChoice Assurance, Inc. and Anthem HealthChoice HMO, Inc. In these same counties, Anthem Blue Cross Retiree Solutions is the trade name of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. Independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. Anthem is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc.

CABC-DEN-063762-24

PUBLICATIONS: August 2024 Dental Provider Newsletter