Baby Steps to a Healthy Pregnancy and

On-Time Delivery

How pregnancy affects teeth and gums

Why periodontal disease is linked to preterm low birthweight babies

What to do about periodontal disease during pregnancy

How to reduce the risk of premature births

How to learn more about oral health and pregnancy

The test came back and it's positive – you're pregnant.   Your mind is rattled with excitement, and you have created a “to-do.”   While your “to-do” list and questions continue to grow, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure an on-time and safe arrival of your most precious cargo yet.

You've probably heard a few old wives' tales about pregnancy, including “A tooth lost for every child.”   While it seems far-fetched, it actually is based loosely in fact.   Your teeth and gums are affected by pregnancy, just as other tissues in your body. You may not be aware that the health of your gums may also affect the health of your baby-to-be.

How does pregnancy affect your teeth and gums?

About half of women experience pregnancy gingivitis.   This condition can be uncomfortable and cause swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue.   Conversely, a more advanced oral health condition called periodontal disease (a serious gum infection that destroys attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold teeth in the mouth) may affect the health of your baby.

Is periodontal disease linked to preterm low birthweight babies?

Studies have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and preterm, low birthweight babies.   In fact, pregnant women with periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that's born too early and too small.   The likely culprit is a labor-inducing chemical found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin.   Very high levels of prostaglandin are found in women with severe cases of periodontal disease.

What do I do?

It is very important that you seek dental care.  If a friend or relative is pregnant, encourage them to see a periodontist as early in the pregnacy as possible.    

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           Info from American Academy of Periodontolgy web site. To learn more click  perio.org.