Continuous maternal care of oral diseases from preconception to lactation

Preconception-to-lactation oral care lacks universal standardized protocols, and the rising prevalence of pregnancy-related oral diseases demands safe, effective clinical guidelines. This study analyzed relevant literature to explore oral care strategies for women in this period.

A literature search was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science up to December 2025 using keywords including "perinatal", "pregnancy" and terms related to oral/dental diseases. The findings indicate that periodontal infections, pulp-involved caries and third molar pericoronitis are common oral diseases in women from preconception to lactation, with periodontitis and acute pulpitis linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Clinical management of oral diseases during this period must adhere to the core principles of safety, necessity, comfort, and multidisciplinary collaboration, with the second trimester being the optimal window for elective dental procedures. Dental imaging examinations are safe with lead shielding, as the radiation dose is far below the established safety threshold. Medications should prioritize low-risk options (e.g., lidocaine, amoxicillin) in accordance with FDA classification and the Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule. Clinically recommended safe therapeutic approaches include basic periodontal treatment, chemomechanical minimally invasive caries excavation, and restoration with resin or glass ionomer cements. Comprehensive preconception oral examinations, standardized prenatal oral hygiene and avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures/high-risk drugs are key to protecting maternal and fetal health.

Women from preconception to lactation face common oral diseases linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes; second-trimester elective dental care is optimal, with safe imaging, low-risk meds and preconception exams key for maternal-fetal health.

Perinatal oral disease management safeguards maternal-fetal health by following safety-core principles, adopting evidence-based safe diagnostics/therapies and prioritizing preconception screening & prenatal preventive oral care.