Hi everyone, Dr. Staci here! As a functional dentist, I focus on the interconnectedness of oral health and overall wellness. Rather than just treating symptoms, functional dentistry addresses the root causes of dental issues—many of which impact the whole body, including fertility.
Today, we're diving into a fascinating and often overlooked topic: how your oral microbiome affects your reproductive journey.
What is the Oral Microbiome?
Think of your mouth as a bustling ecosystem, home to bacteria, fungi, and viruses that make up your oral microbiome. Just like the gut, a balanced oral microbiome is essential for overall health. When in balance, it fights off bad breath, gum disease, and cavities. But when disrupted, harmful bacteria can contribute to inflammation, hormone imbalances, and even fertility challenges.
Related: Nurturing the gut microbiome for fertility, pregnancy and parenthood
The mouth-body connection: How oral health impacts fertility & pregnancy
Fertility & oral health
The health of your mouth is more closely linked to reproductive health than many realize. One of the key concerns is chronic oral inflammation, particularly in the form of gum disease (periodontitis). This condition leads to persistent low-grade inflammation throughout the body, which can negatively impact hormone balance, ovulation, and sperm health.
Here’s how poor oral health may affect fertility in both men and women:
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Inflammation & hormones: The body responds to oral infections with systemic inflammation, which can disrupt hormone regulation and impact ovulation in women.
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Conception delays: Studies show that women with gum disease take longer to conceive compared to those with healthy gums, likely due to underlying inflammation affecting reproductive function.
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Sperm health: For men, gum disease has been linked to reduced sperm quality and motility, which are critical factors for successful conception.
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Endometriosis & PCOS: Some research suggests a potential association between periodontal disease and conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), both of which can affect fertility.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene—through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings—can help reduce inflammation and support a healthier reproductive system.
Pregnancy: Oral health risks & outcomes
Pregnancy is a transformative period that brings significant hormonal changes. These shifts can directly impact the oral microbiome, increasing susceptibility to dental issues. Maintaining good oral health is not just beneficial for the mother—it also plays a crucial role in pregnancy outcomes.
Key oral health risks during pregnancy include:
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Pregnancy gingivitis: Increased progesterone levels can promote bacterial growth, leading to inflamed, bleeding gums. If left untreated, this can progress to periodontal disease, which has been associated with preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth.
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Bacterial transmission to baby: Studies have found that harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and be detected in the placenta and amniotic fluid, potentially affecting fetal development.
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Tooth decay & erosion: Cravings and morning sickness increase acidity in the mouth, which can lead to enamel erosion and cavities.
Expectant mothers should prioritize routine dental checkups, gentle cleanings, and an anti-inflammatory diet to help protect both their own health and their baby’s.
Pregnancy & postpartum: How to support your oral health
The postpartum period is another critical time for oral health, as the body gradually returns to its pre-pregnancy state. However, the combination of hormonal fluctuations, stress, and sleep deprivation can make it challenging to maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Here’s what new mothers should be aware of:
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Prolonged gum sensitivity: Postpartum hormonal changes can keep gums inflamed for weeks to months. In breastfeeding mothers, this may persist even longer due to elevated prolactin levels.
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Fatigue & dental care: Sleep deprivation and an unpredictable routine can lead to skipped oral hygiene habits, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
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Dietary shifts: Changes in eating patterns, including an increase in quick, carbohydrate-heavy snacks, may contribute to higher bacterial activity in the mouth. Staying hydrated and choosing nutrient-dense foods can help counteract these effects.
By being mindful of these changes and maintaining a simple yet effective oral care routine, new mothers can protect their dental health during this transitional period.
Choosing the right products: What’s best for your oral microbiome?
Your choice of oral care products plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy, balanced oral microbiome. Many conventional dental products contain harsh ingredients that kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, disrupting the natural balance of your mouth. Here’s what to look for:
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Toothpaste: Opt for fluoride-free toothpaste with hydroxyapatite or xylitol, which strengthen enamel and promote remineralization without disrupting beneficial bacteria. Hydroxyapatite is a natural mineral that mimics the structure of tooth enamel, making it a powerful alternative to fluoride for cavity prevention.
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Floss: Traditional floss may contain synthetic coatings (like Teflon) and artificial fragrances, which can introduce unnecessary chemicals to the mouth. Instead, choose natural silk floss infused with antimicrobial ingredients like beeswax or coconut oil.
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Mouthwash: Many mouthwashes contain alcohol and antibacterial agents that wipe out good bacteria along with the bad. Instead, look for natural options with essential oils (like tea tree or clove) or xylitol, which help maintain a balanced microbiome without disrupting its protective functions.
By making informed choices about oral care products, you can support a thriving microbiome and protect both your oral and overall health.
How early does oral health matter?
Good oral health starts before birth and continues through infancy and childhood. Early habits set the foundation for a lifelong healthy smile and contribute to overall well-being.
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Before teeth erupt: It’s important to start oral care even before the first tooth appears. Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings helps remove milk or formula residue and prevents harmful bacteria from taking hold.
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First tooth & first dentist visit: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends scheduling a baby’s first dental visit by age one or when the first tooth erupts. Early visits help ensure proper guidance on teething, oral hygiene, and nutrition to support a thriving oral microbiome.
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Avoiding early cavities: Baby teeth play a vital role in speech development, eating, and holding space for adult teeth. To prevent early childhood cavities, avoid putting babies to bed with bottles of milk or juice and introduce fluoride-free, xylitol-based toothpaste once teeth emerge.
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Building a healthy oral microbiome: Breastfeeding has been shown to support a balanced oral microbiome, while introducing a variety of healthy, unprocessed foods helps develop strong teeth and gums.
By establishing these early habits, parents can support optimal oral health from infancy through adulthood.
Male fertility & oral health: The connection
Men’s reproductive health is also closely tied to oral health. Poor oral hygiene and chronic gum disease have been associated with reduced sperm quality, lower sperm count, and even erectile dysfunction.
Here’s how oral health can impact male fertility:
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Systemic inflammation & sperm health: Gum disease causes chronic inflammation, which can reduce testosterone levels and impair sperm production.
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Sperm quality & motility: Studies suggest that men with periodontitis have lower sperm motility and morphology, making conception more difficult.
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Erectile dysfunction (ED): Periodontal disease has been linked to reduced blood flow and vascular health, which may contribute to erectile dysfunction.
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Oral bacteria & DNA damage: Some pathogenic bacteria found in the mouth have been identified in the seminal fluid of infertile men, suggesting that oral infections may impact sperm at a genetic level.
Optimizing male fertility through oral health
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Brush and floss daily to prevent gum disease.
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Visit a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
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Maintain a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins A, D, and K2, along with zinc and antioxidants to support both oral and reproductive health.
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Reduce sugar intake to prevent harmful bacterial overgrowth.
By prioritizing oral hygiene, men can reduce systemic inflammation, improve sperm health, and support overall fertility.
Tongue tie & baby’s overall health
Tongue tie is a condition in which the tissue under the tongue is too short, restricting movement and impacting various aspects of a baby’s health. This restriction can make breastfeeding difficult, affecting early nutrition and gut health. It also plays a crucial role in oral and airway development, potentially leading to speech difficulties and breathing issues as the child grows.
Proper tongue posture is essential for jaw development, and without it, there is an increased risk of sleep-disordered breathing later in life. Additionally, tongue ties can contribute to dental crowding, speech delays, and challenges in transitioning to solid foods.
Fortunately, a pediatric dentist or lactation consultant can assess and treat tongue ties if necessary, often using a simple and effective laser procedure to release the restriction and support optimal development.
Related: The link between oral health and pregnancy
The bottom line: A healthy mouth supports a healthy body
By prioritizing oral health, you’re not only protecting your teeth and gums—you’re supporting hormone balance, fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and postpartum recovery. If you’re trying to conceive or currently pregnant, consider seeing a dentist who understands the oral-systemic connection to optimize your health.
Stay tuned for more expert-backed insights on functional dentistry and how it influences whole-body wellness!
A note from WeNatal on the Impact of Oral Health on Fertility
For many, the mouth might seem separate from fertility and pregnancy, but the trillions of bacteria living there play a surprisingly significant role. Research continues to highlight the connection between oral health and reproductive wellness, from hormone balance to pregnancy outcomes. A well-balanced oral microbiome can help reduce systemic inflammation, supporting both male and female fertility. Nutrients play a critical role in maintaining a healthy oral environment, and that’s where WeNatal comes in.
WeNatal is thoughtfully formulated with key vitamins and minerals that support both oral and reproductive health. Nutrients like vitamin D and magnesium contribute to strong teeth and healthy gums while also playing essential roles in hormone regulation and fetal development. Zinc and vitamin C help reduce inflammation and support immune function, which is crucial for maintaining a balanced oral microbiome. Antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin E further protect against oxidative stress, benefiting both oral tissues and overall fertility. By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you’re not only supporting your reproductive journey but also fostering a healthy oral microbiome that can positively impact pregnancy outcomes.
About Dr. Staci Functional Dentist
Doctor Staci attended Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and initially worked as a general dentist, eventually going back to school, earning her Board-Certification in Pediatric Dentistry from Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU). She is an Institute of Functional Medicine Certified Provider (IFMCP) and lecturer and has her dual Board Certification in Integrative Biological Dental Medicine (IBDM) and as a Naturopathic Physician (NMD) from the American College of Integrative Medicine and Dentistry (ACIMD). She is a Certified International Health and Wellness Coach (CIHC) from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) and is currently working on getting her Functional Diagnostics Certification and Masters in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine. She will begin her Masters in Public Health in the near future.
Doctor Staci has always been passionate about children's nutrition and how to improve our food system, the oral microbiome and the oral-systemic connection, and sleep and airway health, focusing her research in residency on how to improve airway assessments and diagnostic tools in the pediatric population.
She dreams of a world without cavities and believes in motivating families to join her as a team, keeping their children healthy and thriving with small, manageable daily changes that will impact their oral health and their ability to optimize systemic wellness.
References
Jin B, Wang P, Liu P, et al. Association between periodontitis and endometriosis: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2024;15:1271351. Published 2024 Feb 29. doi:10.3389/fendo.2024.1271351
Kellesarian SV, Kellesarian TV, Ros Malignaggi V, et al. Association Between Periodontal Disease and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review. Am J Mens Health. 2018;12(2):338-346. doi:10.1177/1557988316639050
Kellesarian SV, Yunker M, Malmstrom H, Almas K, Romanos GE, Javed F. Male Infertility and Dental Health Status: A Systematic Review. Am J Mens Health. 2018;12(6):1976-1984. doi:10.1177/1557988316655529
Ludovichetti FS, Signoriello AG, Gobbato EA, Artuso A, Stellini E, Mazzoleni S. Can periodontal disease affect conception? A literature review. Reprod Fertil. 2021;2(1):R27-R34. Published 2021 Feb 5. doi:10.1530/RAF-20-0043
Su X, Jin K, Zhou X, et al. The association between sex hormones and periodontitis among American adults: A cross-sectional study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023;14:1125819. Published 2023 Feb 14. doi:10.3389/fendo.2023.1125819
Tanguturi SC, Nagarakanti S. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Periodontal disease: Underlying Links- A Review. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2018;22(2):267-273. doi:10.4103/ijem.IJEM_577_17
Tsikouras P, Oikonomou E, Nikolettos K, et al. The Impact of Periodontal Disease on Preterm Birth and Preeclampsia. J Pers Med. 2024;14(4):345. Published 2024 Mar 26. doi:10.3390/jpm14040345
Ye C, Kapila Y. Oral microbiome shifts during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes: Hormonal and Immunologic changes at play. Periodontol 2000. 2021;87(1):276-281. doi:10.1111/prd.12386
