As if there aren’t already enough changes going on in your body during pregnancy, your oral health can be affected by your mom-to-be status as well.

Patch posed a few questions  on the topic to Potomac's Gigi Meinecke, DMD, FAGD and a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry.

“It’s important not to skip your regular cleaning and check-up due to the effects of circulating hormones on gums,” wrote Meinecke in an emailed response. “The hormonal influences of pregnancy predispose the expectant mom to problems with her gums. It’s these changes which, when untreated, may have an effect on her teeth.”

Though the occasional case of bleeding gums is a common side effect of pregnancy, pregnancy gingivitis – an inflammation of the gums – isn’t something you want to take lightly. According to Meinecke, it may lead to periodontitis, the destruction of bone surrounding our teeth. “This loss of bone may result in painful abscess formation and potential tooth loss. Periodontitis also places a mom at risk for preterm labor and a low birth-weight baby.” That should be enough to convince any pregnant woman to keep up with her bi-annual dental visits.

However, not all dental procedures get the green light during pregnancy. There are some limitations on what’s safe so it’s very important to tell your dentist if you’re pregnant. “The optimum time for any dental treatment, outside of regular cleanings, is during the second trimester,” explains Meinecke. “When possible, treatment during the first trimester and latter half of the third trimester should be delayed. This is a critical time in the baby’s development and it’s best to avoid exposing mom to anything that could influence her baby’s growth.”

So what’s off-limits? X-rays should only be taken if the patient is having pain or swelling, advises Meinecke. Otherwise, if you’re due for X-rays during a normal check-up, best to wait until after the baby is born.

If you need that cavity or other painful dental problem remedied sooner rather than later, be cautious of medications. “Lidocaine is the most common numbing agent used in dentistry. It’s considered a category B drug, as is Tylenol and some antibiotics,” explains Meinecke. “Most expectant moms know it’s best to avoid medications during pregnancy. So, when dental work is needed, it’s best to use the smallest dose possible that still keeps the patient comfortable.”

And any cosmetic dentistry procedures – teeth whitening, veneers, etc. – can certainly wait until after baby makes his or her debut.