Are You Putting Your Unborn Child At Risk?

Facts ALL Expectant Mothers’ Need To Know About Periodontal Health That Are Vital To The Health of Your Baby

When a woman becomes pregnant, she knows it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure both the health of herself and the health of her baby.

New clinical recommendations from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) urge pregnant women to maintain periodontal health as well. Research has indicated that women with periodontal disease may be at risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as giving birth to a pre-term or low-birth weight baby, reports the AAP and EFP.

Periodontal disease is a chronic, bacteria-induced, inflammatory condition that attacks the gum tissue and in more severe cases, the bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to tooth loss and has also been associated with other systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Early indications of gum disease can include tenderness, redness, or swollen gums.

Other symptoms include:

  • Gums that bleed when brushing your teeth or eating
  • Gums that are pulling away from your teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth

These signs, especially during pregnancy, should not be ignored and may require treatment from a dental professional.

So if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, another way to help ensure your health and the health of your baby is to take care of your teeth and gums. The best way you can do this is by:

  • Brushing your teeth regularly, at least two times per day for two minutes.
  • Flossing daily.
  • Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and a comprehensive evaluation.

Preventing Periodontal Disease in Pregnant Women