- Comprehensive dental exam with periodontal screening (gingivitis/periodontitis)
- Identify and treat caries, cracked teeth, or root canal infections
- Discuss saliva/oral microbiome testing, which can be done with online tests and ordered through Dr. Lee
- Review habits: mouth breathing, snoring/sleep apnea, bruxism (grinding), reflux, oral hygiene routines
- Product check: toothpaste ingredients (SLS, fluoride, xylitol), floss, rinses, and timing of dental visits around fertility treatment
- Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) can cross the placenta and cause pregnancy complications.
- Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) is linked to difficulty conceiving.
- Routine cleanings and necessary dental care are generally safe before TTC and during pregnancy.
- Modern X-rays use very low radiation; if needed, shielding and timing can be coordinated with your REI and dentist.
- Urgent infections should always be treated promptly, during fertility treatment or during pregnancy.
- Do I have any active gum inflammation or untreated decay?
- What’s my personalized plan to reduce oral inflammation in the next 4–8 weeks?
- Which products and habits best support a healthy oral microbiome while TTC?
- Endometriosis: Research has found that Fusobacterium nucleatum (FN) bacteria, often present in the mouth, may play a role in the progression of endometriosis. Because endometriosis is a whole-body inflammatory condition, addressing oral inflammation could help lower overall inflammatory load and better support implantation.
- PCOS: The interplay of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and periodontal disease with hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation suggests that improving oral microbiome health may directly support ovulation and egg quality.
- Unexplained infertility: Sometimes the issue isn’t truly “unexplained,” it’s simply “unchecked.” Including the “D” in TUSHY-D closes a common blind spot and ensures oral health isn’t overlooked as a contributing factor.
- Run the checklist: Make sure each letter has been addressed for both partners.
- Triage & treat: Fix what’s fixable now (like a cavity or gingivitis).
- Personalize: Your plan should match your diagnosis, timeline, and values.
- Coordinate: Ask your dentist and fertility doctor to communicate so your care is seamless.
- Daily habits and oral care tips that support fertility and overall reproductive health
- Safety of dental procedures, X-rays, and managing dental anxiety before IVF
- How oral microbiome imbalances, gum inflammation, and systemic inflammation affect hormones and fertility
- Partner oral health, PCOS, and other conditions that influence conception
- Recommended natural oral care products, testing options, and actionable strategies for preconception planning


