The college noted that 35 percent of all women say they haven’t seen a dentist in the past year and about 40 percent of pregnant women in the United States have cavities or gum disease. Physical changes caused by pregnancy can cause changes in teeth and gums. Dental problems during pregnancy are most common among black women, smokers and women on public assistance.

“We can all reassure our patients that routine teeth cleanings, dental X-rays and local anesthesia are safe during pregnancy, Pregnancy is not a reason to delay root canals or filling cavities if they are needed because putting off treatment may lead to further complications.” Cheng said.

Among the potential benefits of good dental health during pregnancy is that it may decrease the transmission of cavity-causing bacteria from mother to baby, which can help reduce the child’s future risk of cavities.