Pregnancy is a transformative journey—physically, emotionally and hormonally. In Singapore, where healthcare standards are high and preventive medicine is strongly encouraged, many expectant mothers ask an important question:
“Is dental scaling and polishing safe during pregnancy?”
The short answer is yes—scaling and polishing is safe, recommended and often necessary during pregnancy, when done correctly and at the right time.
Why Oral Health Becomes More Important During Pregnancy
Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes, particularly increased progesterone and oestrogen levels, which directly affect your gums and oral tissues.
Common pregnancy-related dental issues include:
- Pregnancy gingivitis
- Increased plaque and tartar buildup
- Gum swelling and bleeding
- Pregnancy tumours (pyogenic granulomas)
- Higher risk of tooth decay
- Worsening of pre-existing gum disease
According to medical research published on PubMed Central (PMC), untreated gum disease during pregnancy has been associated with:
- Preterm birth
- Low birth weight
- Pregnancy complications linked to systemic inflammation
👉 This makes preventive dental care like scaling and polishing essential—not optional.
What Is Scaling and Polishing?
Dental scaling and polishing is a professional cleaning procedure that removes:
- Plaque (soft bacterial deposits)
- Tartar (hardened plaque)
- Bacteria below the gumline
Scaling
Removes tartar from:
- Tooth surfaces
- Below the gumline
- Hard-to-reach areas brushing cannot access
Polishing
Smoothens tooth surfaces to:
- Reduce plaque re-attachment
- Improve gum health
- Leave teeth feeling clean and fresh
In Singapore, scaling and polishing is one of the most commonly recommended preventive dental treatments, including for pregnant women.
Is Scaling and Polishing Safe During Pregnancy?
✅ Yes — It Is Clinically Safe and Medically Approved
Based on:
- Singapore dental clinic guidelines
- Hospital dental departments (including Thomson Medical)
- International medical literature
- Peer-reviewed pregnancy dental studies
Scaling and polishing is safe throughout pregnancy, especially when:
- No general anaesthesia is used
- X-rays are avoided unless absolutely necessary
- The dentist is informed about your pregnancy stage
Most Singapore dentists recommend routine scaling and polishing during pregnancy to prevent gum infections that could affect both mother and baby.
Best Time for Scaling and Polishing During Pregnancy
🟢 Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27) — Ideal & Most Comfortable
- Morning sickness usually subsides
- Lower risk of fatigue
- Comfortable chair positioning
- Safest window for routine dental procedures
🟡 First Trimester
- Safe if necessary
- Elective procedures often postponed
- Emergency dental care still allowed
🟠 Third Trimester
- Still safe
- Shorter appointments recommended
- Chair position adjusted to avoid discomfort
👉 Emergency scaling or gum treatment should never be delayed, regardless of trimester.
Does Scaling and Polishing Cause Pain During Pregnancy?
No—scaling and polishing is generally painless, even during pregnancy.
However, pregnant women may experience:
- Increased gum sensitivity
- Mild bleeding due to hormonal changes
These symptoms are normal and temporary and professional cleaning actually helps reduce inflammation over time.
If you have sensitive gums, your dentist may:
- Use gentler ultrasonic scaling
- Apply desensitising techniques
- Adjust treatment duration
Can Scaling and Polishing Harm the Baby?
This is one of the most searched concerns in Singapore—and the answer is no.
Why it’s safe:
- No medication enters the bloodstream
- No radiation exposure (unless X-rays are absolutely needed with shielding)
- No chemicals harmful to foetal development
In fact, untreated gum infections pose a higher risk than dental cleaning itself.
Why Singapore Dentists Strongly Recommend Scaling During Pregnancy
Singapore’s healthcare system prioritises preventive care, especially for mothers.
Reasons scaling and polishing is recommended:
- Prevents pregnancy gingivitis
- Reduces oral bacteria linked to systemic inflammation
- Supports overall maternal health
- Helps maintain nutrition and eating comfort
- Aligns with MOH-guided preventive healthcare principles
Many private dental clinics in Singapore, including Dental Clinic Thomson, follow evidence-based protocols specifically designed for pregnant patients.
Scaling and Polishing vs Delaying Treatment Until After Delivery
| Aspect | During Pregnancy | After Delivery |
| Gum health | Maintained | Often worsens |
| Infection risk | Reduced | Higher |
| Comfort | Controlled | Difficult with newborn |
| Baby’s health | Protected | Risk already passed |
👉 Delaying dental cleaning until after childbirth often leads to more severe gum disease requiring advanced treatment later.
Cultural & Lifestyle Factors for Pregnant Women in Singapore
Singapore lifestyle realities:
- Busy work schedules
- High stress levels
- Late pregnancies (many mothers conceive in their 30s)
- High awareness of medical safety
- Strong trust in professional healthcare
Pregnant women in Singapore are:
- Health-conscious
- Research-driven
- Risk-averse
- Willing to invest in preventive care
This makes trusted, well-explained dental guidance essential.
Is Scaling and Polishing Covered by Insurance or Subsidies?
Coverage depends on:
- Private dental insurance
- Corporate benefits
- CHAS (limited coverage in some cases)
Most pregnant women in Singapore opt for private dental clinics due to:
- Shorter waiting times
- Flexible appointment slots
- Personalised care
- Better comfort during pregnancy
Oral Care Tips for Pregnant Women After Scaling
To maintain results:
- Brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss gently every day
- Rinse after morning sickness
- Avoid excessive sugary snacks
- Attend regular dental check-ups
When Should Pregnant Women Avoid Scaling and Polishing?
Very few situations require postponement:
- Severe pregnancy complications (doctor-advised)
- High-risk medical conditions requiring clearance
Always inform your dentist about:
- Pregnancy stage
- Medical history
- Medications
- Pregnancy complications (if any)
Why Choose a Dental Clinic Thomson Experienced With Pregnancy Care?
Not all dental cleanings are the same.
An experienced clinic will:
- Adjust chair positioning
- Use pregnancy-safe techniques
- Avoid unnecessary procedures
- Communicate with your obstetrician if needed
- Prioritise comfort and safety
At Dental Clinic Thomson, pregnancy-safe dental care is approached with clinical precision, patient comfort and preventive focus, aligning with Singapore’s high healthcare standards.
How Dental Clinic Thomson Can Help
Scaling and polishing during pregnancy is safe, recommended and beneficial for both mother and baby when performed by a qualified Singapore dentist.
Ignoring oral health during pregnancy poses greater risks than undergoing routine dental cleaning.
📅 Book an appointment today
📍 Visit Us: Dental Clinic Thomson
📞 Call Now:+65 66904691