Pregnancy Problems Caused by Gum Disease

Pregnancy is a time of dramatic change for most women. In order to ensure the health of their baby, most women often give up foods they enjoy, drinks that have the potential to cause harm, and focus on living an overall healthier lifestyle. One thing many pregnant women overlook however, is their oral health.

Although as many as 75% of pregnant women suffer from pregnancy gingivitis, only about half of all pregnant women seek help from a dental professional while they are pregnant. Many mistakenly believe that all dental work is risky during pregnancy. In fact, while it is recommended to delay elective dental work like teeth bleaching during pregnancy, untreated infections like gum disease can lead to health hazards for both mother and baby.

Recent studies have linked gum disease to heart disease, possibly due to increased levels of inflammation throughout the body. Multiple studies have also linked the bacteria that cause gum disease to a number of pregnancy problems, including low birth weight and preterm birth.

Women with gum disease are actually seven times more likely to deliver prematurely than women without gum disease. Preterm babies are at high risk for suffering from developmental delays, breathing difficulties, jaundice, cerebral palsy, malnutrition, congestive heart failure, and anemia.

While hormones may increase the risk of gum disease during pregnancy, it can be successfully treated, preventing many of the associated pregnancy complications. Regular dental exams and cleanings are highly recommended by the American Pregnancy Association. Our North Hollywood dentist may advise more frequent cleanings based on your personal risk level.

Source: North Hollywood Dentist

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