Periodontal And Systemic Connection With Low Birth Weight Babies
With over half a million babies born too early each year in the United States
, it is important to understand the impact of the health of your mouth and the health of your baby. Premature births are a major public health concern that takes a toll on the individuals, their families and their social network, as well as a society as a whole. Studies have shown that expectant mothers with periodontal disease are up to seven times more likely to deliver premature, low birth weight babies.
What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding a tooth, which is the leading cause of tooth loss. Once gum disease sets in, the toxins that are produced by the bacteria damage your teeth's connective tissue and bone. This can eventually destroy them and bring forth tooth loss.
Some common signs of gum disease include:
*Bleeding gums during brushing or otherwise
*Sensitive, red or swollen gums
*Bad breath
*Teeth that are loose or appear to have shifted
The Link between Periodontal Disease and Low Birth Weight Babies
U.S. researchers have concluded there is a link between periodontal disease and preterm delivery of low birth weight babies in women over the age of 25. Preterm delivery is defined as a gestation period of less than 36 weeks, and delivery weight of less than 5.2 pounds. The jury is still out on the magnitude of the link between periodontal disease and preterm delivery and/or low birth weight babies. However, it is common sense to provide pregnant patients with thorough dental hygiene and periodontal care before, during, and after pregnancy to ensure both the health of the mom and baby.
Periodontal (gum) diseases are some of the most common chronic infections we can experience. Due to hormonal changes, majority of women who are pregnant develop "pregnancy gingivitis." Periodontal pathogens and their antibodies have been detected in amniotic fluid, placenta, and umbilical cord, having crossed the placental barrier. What does this mean? It means that periodontal disease has contributed to the systemic burden of infection/inflammation that is believed to be a major mechanism causing adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Don't Take the Chance: Protect Your Mouth
Prevention is essential in the maintenance of your smile. The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, visiting your dentist for regular checkups and maintaining a proper, nutritious diet.
Regular dental exams are necessary to remove tartar and to detect early signs of gum disease, but your own dental health regimen also plays a major role in preventing the build-up and progression of tartar. Some preventative steps you can take at home to keep your teeth healthy include:
*Brush your teeth twice a day
*Floss daily to remove plaque
*Eat a well-balanced diet
*Use a mouth rinse in conjunction with brushing and flossing
*Avoid cigarettes and chewing tobacco
When gum disease is detected in its earliest stages, it is extremely manageable and reversible. If you are experiencing bleeding while brushing or any other symptoms of gum disease, contact your Rochester dentist for further examination. Remember, early diagnosis and prevention are key in the maintenance of your smile, and protecting yourself and your baby.
by: Gen Wright
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