Oral Health and Pregnancy

Oral Health and Pregnancy

Oral Health and Pregnancy

By Charles Martin, DDS

Pregnancy should be one of the most exciting times in a woman's life! Proper care of your teeth becomes essential during pregnancy. Gum disease can lead to preterm births (PTB) or low birth weights (LBW). Evidence suggests, chronic oral infections cause immune responses in the body to release a cascade of enzymes, in both the mother and the fetus, that trigger the preterm delivery.

Studies also conclude that the enzymes that cause preterm deliveries are linked to cerebral palsy in the infant and depression in the mother. Scientists believe, new approaches need to be developed to prevent premature births and low birth weights.

Researchers determined, gum disease during pregnancy resulted in a large number of preterm deliveries and low birth weights, as compared to mothers with no signs of gum disease. Other studies were conducted linking gum disease with gestational diabetes. Women who develop high blood sugar during pregnancy increase their risk of preterm delivery and developing type-two diabetes later in life.

Low birth weight babies endure greater complications than normal birth weight babies and are almost 20 times more likely to die before their first birthday. Some experts suggest that 18 percent of the preterm, low birth weight babies born were a result of periodontal disease in the mother.

Women should receive a periodontal check up prior to becoming pregnant or as soon as they discover they're pregnant. Waiting too long, 21 to 24 weeks, could lead to preterm birth and low birth weight. Some studies suggest that the complications from gum disease could result in low birth weights when detected as early as 15 weeks of pregnancy.

Treatment of gum disease can be provided safely to pregnant women, and thus decrease the chance of preterm deliveries and low birth weights. Healthcare providers are now paying more attention to links between gum disease and PTD and LBW.

One study indicated an 80 percent preterm delivery rate in a study of pregnant women who had gum disease and received no treatment for it. Another study revealed that women who were treated for gingivitis prior to their 28th week of pregnancy decreased their risk of PTD.

Women who are pregnant should have regular oral checkups, and if an oral infection is detected, it should be treated immediately. Schedule an appointment for a thorough cleaning and checkup when you discover you are pregnant. If you want a healthy baby, start with a healthy mouth.

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