Pregnancy is a unique period marked by a range of systemic changes that affect nearly every organ system, including the oral cavity (Yenen and Ataçağ. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc [Internet]. 20(4):264, 2019; Pascual ZN, Langaker MD. Physiology, Pregnancy. StatPearls [Internet]. 2023 May 16 [cited 2025 May 4]; Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559304/ ). While much of the focus during pregnancy is placed on fetal health, it is equally important to recognize how maternal oral health can be influenced during this time (Liu et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health [Internet] 16(14):2621, 2019). Hormonal fluctuations particularly involving estrogen and progesterone as well as alterations in immune responses, saliva composition, and dietary habits can predispose pregnant individuals to various oral health conditions (Sachelarie et al. Medicina (B Aires) [Internet]. 60(11):1773, 2024). And with appropriate preventive care and awareness, most dental complications can be avoided during this period. However, the prevalence of conditions such as pregnancy gingivitis, periodontal disease, dental caries, xerostomia, pregnancy tumors (epulis gravidarum), and dental erosion has been shown to increase during gestation (Islam and Haque. Heliyon [Internet]. 10(3):e24259, 2024). These conditions not only affect maternal well-being but may also contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia (Tsikouras et al. J Pers Med [Internet] 14(4):345, 2024). The bidirectional relationship between oral health and systemic health becomes particularly critical in the context of pregnancy. Dental care providers have a responsibility to educate patients about potential oral changes during this period, provide timely interventions when needed, and collaborate closely with obstetricians to ensure optimal maternal-fetal outcomes. Moreover, awareness regarding medication safety, appropriate timing of dental treatments, and effective oral hygiene strategies can empower pregnant individuals to maintain their oral health throughout pregnancy and beyond (Committee Opinion No. 569. Obstetrics & Gynecology [Internet]. 2013 [cited 2025 May 4];122(2):417–22. Available from: https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/fulltext/2013/08000/committee_opinion_no569oral_health_care_during.47.aspx ). This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of pregnancy-related oral health concerns, outline their potential risks, and suggest evidence-based approaches for their prevention and management. By promoting integrated care and early intervention, oral health professionals can play a significant role in safeguarding both maternal and neonatal health.

Oral Health During Pregnancy

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发表日期：

2026年

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Ezgi Demir

摘要

Pregnancy is a unique period marked by a range of systemic changes that affect nearly every organ system, including the oral cavity (Yenen and Ataçağ. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc [Internet]. 20(4):264, 2019; Pascual ZN, Langaker MD. Physiology, Pregnancy. StatPearls [Internet]. 2023 May 16 [cited 2025 May 4]; Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559304/ ). While much of the focus during pregnancy is placed on fetal health, it is equally important to recognize how maternal oral health can be influenced during this time (Liu et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health [Internet] 16(14):2621, 2019). Hormonal fluctuations particularly involving estrogen and progesterone as well as alterations in immune responses, saliva composition, and dietary habits can predispose pregnant individuals to various oral health conditions (Sachelarie et al. Medicina (B Aires) [Internet]. 60(11):1773, 2024). And with appropriate preventive care and awareness, most dental complications can be avoided during this period. However, the prevalence of conditions such as pregnancy gingivitis, periodontal disease, dental caries, xerostomia, pregnancy tumors (epulis gravidarum), and dental erosion has been shown to increase during gestation (Islam and Haque. Heliyon [Internet]. 10(3):e24259, 2024). These conditions not only affect maternal well-being but may also contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia (Tsikouras et al. J Pers Med [Internet] 14(4):345, 2024). The bidirectional relationship between oral health and systemic health becomes particularly critical in the context of pregnancy. Dental care providers have a responsibility to educate patients about potential oral changes during this period, provide timely interventions when needed, and collaborate closely with obstetricians to ensure optimal maternal-fetal outcomes. Moreover, awareness regarding medication safety, appropriate timing of dental treatments, and effective oral hygiene strategies can empower pregnant individuals to maintain their oral health throughout pregnancy and beyond (Committee Opinion No. 569. Obstetrics & Gynecology [Internet]. 2013 [cited 2025 May 4];122(2):417–22. Available from: https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/fulltext/2013/08000/committee_opinion_no__569__oral_health_care_during.47.aspx ). This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of pregnancy-related oral health concerns, outline their potential risks, and suggest evidence-based approaches for their prevention and management. By promoting integrated care and early intervention, oral health professionals can play a significant role in safeguarding both maternal and neonatal health.