Last updated: January 2026. This guide covers free NHS dental care during pregnancy, which treatments are safe, how to get your maternity exemption certificate, and caring for your teeth when you're expecting.
If you're pregnant, you might not know that you're entitled to completely free NHS dental care—not just during pregnancy, but for 12 months after your baby is born. Yet over a million maternity dental appointments have been missed since the pandemic, meaning many expectant and new mothers aren't accessing the care they're entitled to.
This guide explains everything you need to know about dental care during pregnancy: what's safe, what to avoid, how to get free treatment, and how to protect your teeth when pregnancy hormones and morning sickness take their toll.
Free NHS Dental Care During Pregnancy
One of the best-kept secrets of pregnancy is that all NHS dental treatment is completely free—from check-ups to fillings, extractions to emergency care.
Who Qualifies for Free Treatment?
You qualify for free NHS dental care if you are:
- Pregnant at the time your treatment starts
- Have had a baby in the previous 12 months
- Have experienced stillbirth in the previous 12 months
"Pregnant individuals automatically qualify for free NHS dental appointments and treatment." — NHS
How Long Does Free Dental Care Last?
| Timeline | Coverage |
|---|---|
| During pregnancy | All NHS dental treatment free |
| After birth | Free for 12 months from baby's birth date |
| After stillbirth | Free for 12 months from due date |
This means if you give birth in January, you have free NHS dental care until the following January—giving you plenty of time to address any dental issues that arose during pregnancy.
What Treatments Are Included?
Your free NHS dental care covers:
- Dental check-ups and examinations
- Hygiene appointments (scaling and polishing)
- Fillings (composite/white fillings)
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatment
- Emergency dental care
"Clinically required NHS dental services and treatments are free of charge, including dental check-ups, hygiene appointments, and restorative work such as fillings, extractions and root canal treatment." — MoneyHelper
How to Get Your Maternity Exemption Certificate (MatEx)
To claim free dental treatment, you need a Maternity Exemption Certificate (MatEx). This also entitles you to free NHS prescriptions.
How to Apply
You don't need to apply yourself—your healthcare professional handles it:
- Your midwife, doctor, or health visitor completes the FW8 application form
- This is usually done when your pregnancy is confirmed
- If they use the digital service, your certificate arrives by email immediately
- Paper certificates arrive within 10 working days
"Healthcare professionals handle applications. Your midwife, doctor, or health visitor completes the paperwork once pregnancy is confirmed." — NHSBSA
MatEx Validity
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start date | Backdated one month before application |
| Expiry date | 12 months after your due date or baby's birth date |
| If baby arrives late | Contact NHSBSA with birth certificate to extend |
What If You Don't Have Your Certificate Yet?
If your MatEx hasn't arrived, you can show your dentist alternative proof:
- Maternity certificate (MAT B1 form)
- Notification of birth form
- Baby's birth certificate
- Stillbirth certificate
Important: Without a valid MatEx or alternative proof, you may face penalty charges of up to £100, so make sure you have documentation when you attend appointments.
Regional Differences Across the UK
Free dental care during pregnancy applies across the UK, but there are some regional variations worth knowing.
| Benefit | England | Scotland | Wales | Northern Ireland |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free dental care during pregnancy | Yes (with MatEx) | Yes (MatEx or MAT B1) | Yes (MatEx or MAT B1) | Yes (MatEx or MAT B1) |
| Free prescriptions | Only with exemption | Free for everyone | Free for everyone | Free for everyone |
| Free dental check-ups (general) | Only with exemption | Free for everyone | Free for under-25s and over-60s | Only with exemption |
| Duration after birth | 12 months | 12 months | 12 months | 12 months |
"Prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and to get free dental care, you can show your dentist your maternity exemption certificate or your MAT B1 form." — MoneyHelper
Which Dental Treatments Are Safe During Pregnancy?
Many women worry about having dental work during pregnancy. The good news is that most dental treatments are perfectly safe.
"Pregnancy should not be a contraindication for dental treatment, and there is no evidence to suggest that dental treatment is associated with any harm to the developing baby." — Dental Update
Treatment Safety Summary
| Treatment | Safety | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dental check-ups | Safe | Recommended throughout pregnancy |
| Routine cleaning | Safe | Important for preventing gingivitis |
| White fillings | Safe | Can be done any trimester |
| Tooth extraction | Safe | Second trimester ideal |
| Root canal | Safe | Should not be delayed if needed |
| Local anaesthetic | Safe | Lidocaine doesn't cross placenta |
| Teeth whitening | Postpone | Wait until after breastfeeding |
| Amalgam fillings | Avoid | Don't place or remove during pregnancy |
| X-rays | When necessary | Safe with shielding, but postpone routine ones |
Fillings During Pregnancy
White (composite) fillings are safe during pregnancy and are the recommended option.
Amalgam (silver) fillings should be avoided:
"The Department of Health and Social Care advises that amalgam fillings should not be removed during pregnancy." — NHS
This applies to both:
- Placing new amalgam fillings
- Removing existing amalgam fillings
If you need a filling during pregnancy, your dentist will use composite (white) filling material or place a temporary filling to be replaced after birth.
Tooth Extractions and Root Canal
Both extractions and root canal treatment are safe during pregnancy when needed.
"Being pregnant will not prevent you from having treatments such as fillings, root canals, or tooth extractions." — Colosseum Dental
Don't delay necessary treatment. Leaving an infected tooth untreated poses a greater risk to you and your baby than having the treatment.
"Emergency treatments, such as extractions, root canals or restorations can be safely performed during pregnancy and delaying treatment may result in more complex problems." — American Dental Association
Local Anaesthetic During Pregnancy
Local dental anaesthetic is safe during pregnancy.
"Local anaesthetic is safe during pregnancy, and lidocaine, the most commonly used type, does not cross the placenta." — Huggies UK
Lidocaine with adrenaline (the standard combination used in dental procedures) is safe for most pregnant women at normal doses.
Dental X-rays During Pregnancy
The NHS generally recommends waiting for non-urgent X-rays:
"If you need a dental X-ray, your dentist will usually wait until you've had your baby." — NHS
However, X-rays can be safely taken when clinically necessary:
- Lead apron protects your abdomen
- Thyroid collar provides additional protection
- Modern dental X-rays use very low radiation doses
- Most dental X-rays don't affect the abdomen or pelvis
"Dental radiographs can be taken at any trimester during the pregnancy while keeping the dose as low as reasonably achievable." — PMC
Bottom line: Routine X-rays can wait, but don't refuse necessary X-rays in an emergency—the risk of untreated dental infection is greater than the minimal radiation exposure.
Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy
Postpone teeth whitening until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
"There is no evidence that the whitening solution is harmful to pregnant or nursing mothers but the general advice during pregnancy is to avoid any unnecessary potential hazards." — Carmel McHenry, British Dental Association
The reason for caution:
"Testing of any suitable level has not been done on the effects of ingested hydrogen peroxide on an unborn child." — Ravenscourt Dental
Safe alternatives while pregnant:
- Whitening toothpastes (contain mild abrasives only)
- Professional dental cleaning to remove surface stains
- Good oral hygiene to maintain brightness
Best Time for Dental Treatment During Pregnancy
The second trimester (weeks 13-27) is the optimal time for dental treatment.
Treatment Timing by Trimester
| Trimester | Weeks | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|---|
| First | 1-12 | Routine check-ups and cleaning only. Postpone elective treatment. |
| Second | 13-27 | Ideal time for all necessary treatment |
| Third | 28-40 | Routine care early on; emergencies only in late pregnancy |
Why the Second Trimester is Best
"The safest time to receive dental treatment during pregnancy is during the second trimester (13-27 weeks)." — Oral-B
Reasons:
- Morning sickness usually resolved — Makes appointments more comfortable
- Critical foetal development complete — Major organ formation happens in the first trimester
- Physical comfort — Your bump isn't too large to lie back comfortably
- Energy levels — Generally highest during this period
"By this stage, you will hopefully be over any nausea experienced in the first trimester, but your bump shouldn't be so big that it causes discomfort when lying down for a longer period of time." — Huggies UK
Third Trimester Considerations
In late pregnancy, lying flat on your back can be uncomfortable and potentially reduce blood flow. Your dentist can:
- Adjust the chair position
- Use a left lateral tilt
- Keep appointments shorter
- Schedule more frequent breaks
Emergencies don't follow schedules. If you need urgent treatment in any trimester, don't delay—treating dental infections is safer than leaving them untreated.
Common Dental Problems During Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones can significantly affect your oral health. Understanding these changes helps you manage them.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
The most common dental problem during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis—swollen, tender, bleeding gums.
"Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding." — NHS
Symptoms:
- Swollen, puffy gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, tender gum tissue
- Gums that feel sore
Why it happens:
"This is caused when the body produces more progesterone, which boosts blood supply to the mouth and makes gums more sensitive to bacteria." — NHS Inform Scotland
What to do:
- Continue brushing and flossing (even if gums bleed)
- Book a dental hygiene appointment
- Pregnancy gingivitis usually resolves after birth
Enamel Erosion from Morning Sickness
If you experience morning sickness, your teeth are exposed to stomach acid, which can erode tooth enamel.
"Frequent vomiting exposes your teeth to stomach acid, which wears away the enamel and exposes the dentin underneath. Less enamel can lead to tooth sensitivity and tooth decay." — March of Dimes
Critical advice—what NOT to do:
"After vomiting, don't brush your teeth right away. That may seem counter-intuitive, but brushing immediately scrubs away the enamel further." — March of Dimes
What to do instead:
- Rinse your mouth with plain water immediately after being sick
- Or use a baking soda solution to neutralise the acid
- Wait 30-60 minutes before brushing
- Then brush gently with fluoride toothpaste
"Do not brush your teeth straight away as they will be softened by the acid from your stomach. Wait about an hour before brushing." — NHS
Tooth Sensitivity
Many pregnant women experience increased tooth sensitivity due to:
- Enamel erosion from morning sickness
- Gum recession from gingivitis
- Hormonal changes
- Increased blood flow to gums
Management:
- Use sensitivity toothpaste
- Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush
- Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks
- See your dentist for professional advice
Pregnancy Tumours
Despite the alarming name, pregnancy tumours are:
- Non-cancerous gum overgrowths
- Red, swollen lumps on the gums
- Usually appear in the second trimester
- Generally resolve after birth
They only need treatment if they cause discomfort or interfere with eating.
Daily Oral Care During Pregnancy
Good oral hygiene is especially important during pregnancy. Here's the NHS-recommended routine:
Brushing
"Clean your teeth carefully twice a day for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste." — NHS
Tips:
- Use a soft-bristled, small-headed brush
- Be gentle on sensitive, swollen gums
- Don't skip brushing—even if gums bleed
Flossing
"Floss once a day to remove small bits of food from between your teeth." — NHS
Flossing helps prevent pregnancy gingivitis by removing plaque from between teeth where brushing can't reach.
Mouthwash
"Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol." — NHS
Safe alternatives:
- Alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash
- Salt water rinse
- Baking soda solution (especially after morning sickness)
Diet
"Avoid having sugary drinks (such as fizzy drinks or sweet tea) and sugary foods too often." — NHS
Tips:
- Limit sugary snacks
- If you need to combat nausea with frequent small meals, choose tooth-friendly options
- Drink water throughout the day
- Save sugary items for mealtimes rather than constant grazing
Over 1 Million Appointments Missed
Despite free NHS dental care being available, many pregnant women and new mothers aren't accessing it.
"Uptake plummeted during the pandemic: from an average of over 840,000 maternity claims per year pre-pandemic to 245,967 in 2020/21." — British Dental Journal
This resulted in an estimated 1.2 million maternity dental appointments lost since lockdown.
Why this matters:
"Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding, while changes to dietary habits and morning sickness can also damage teeth." — British Dental Journal
If you're pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months, don't miss out on your entitlement to free dental care. Even if you're not experiencing problems, a check-up and clean can prevent issues developing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to go to the dentist while pregnant?
Yes, it's safe and recommended. Routine dental care is safe throughout pregnancy, and necessary treatments like fillings, extractions, and root canals can be safely performed. The second trimester (weeks 13-27) is the ideal time for treatment.
Can I have fillings when pregnant?
Yes, white (composite) fillings are safe during pregnancy. However, amalgam (silver) fillings should not be placed or removed during pregnancy according to the Department of Health and Social Care.
Is dental anaesthetic safe during pregnancy?
Yes, local dental anaesthetic is safe. Lidocaine, the most commonly used type, doesn't cross the placenta. Lidocaine with adrenaline is safe for most pregnant women at standard doses.
Can I have teeth whitening when pregnant?
No, it's recommended to postpone teeth whitening until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. While there's no evidence of harm, UK dental experts advise avoiding unnecessary chemical exposure during this time.
Can I have dental X-rays when pregnant?
Routine X-rays are usually postponed until after birth. However, X-rays can be safely taken when clinically necessary using protective shielding. Most dental X-rays don't affect the abdomen or pelvis.
How long is dental care free after having a baby?
NHS dental care is free for 12 months after your baby's birth date (or due date). After this period, you'll need to pay standard NHS dental charges unless you qualify for other exemptions.
What's the best trimester for dental work?
The second trimester (weeks 13-27) is optimal. Morning sickness has usually resolved, critical foetal development is complete, and you're still comfortable enough to lie back in the dental chair.
Why are my gums bleeding during pregnancy?
Pregnancy hormones increase blood flow to your gums and make them more sensitive to plaque bacteria, causing pregnancy gingivitis. This is common and usually resolves after birth. Continue brushing and flossing, and see your dentist for a hygiene appointment.
Should I tell my dentist I'm pregnant?
Yes, always inform your dentist about your pregnancy. This helps them plan treatment timing, choose appropriate materials, adjust your positioning in the chair, and ensure you receive safe medications.
How do I get my maternity exemption certificate?
Your midwife, doctor, or health visitor completes the FW8 application form. If they use the digital service, your certificate arrives by email immediately. Otherwise, expect a paper certificate within 10 working days.
Find a Dentist for Pregnancy Dental Care
Your dental health matters—both for you and your developing baby. If you're pregnant or have recently had a baby, take advantage of your free NHS dental entitlement while you can.
Even if your teeth feel fine, pregnancy hormones can cause problems you're not yet aware of. A check-up early in pregnancy, treatment in the second trimester if needed, and ongoing care after birth will help keep your smile healthy through this important time.
Use our search to find dentists in your area who are accepting new NHS patients.
