Unexpected: Managing Oral Health in a Complicated Pregnancy

While most pregnancies are healthy and uncomplicated, adverse pregnancy outcomes and pregnancy complications do occur and may frequently present in the dental office. Management of patients with high-risk pregnancies and/or established pregnancy complications within the dental office should be undertaken to establish and maintain optimal oral health and an integrated approach to overall health. The dental team's understanding of potential pregnancy complications, their implications for oral health, and standards for management of patients with a complicated pregnancy within the dental office is critical to the overall well-being of all pregnant patients. Recognizing and differentiating between normal pregnancy sequelae and more serious complications, as well as proper referral to and adequate communication with the perinatal team, are critical to promoting wellness for patients experiencing pregnancy complications.