Dental Care During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with baby showers, making lists and taking extra care with your health. But did you know that you also need to be just as aware of your oral health as you are of your physical health during pregnancy?

The American Academy of Periodontology report that half of pregnant woman experience what is known as “pregnancy gingivitis.” The symptoms can include swelling, bleeding and tenderness in the gum tissue. A more serious form is gingivitis is periodontal disease, which over time destroys the gum surrounding teeth.

Studies regarding the potential harm periodontal disease can cause pregnant women is mixed. The American Academy of Periodontology has stated that periodontal disease can affect your baby’s birth weight. Some evidence has demonstrated that woman with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to deliver a baby that is pre-mature or a baby that has a low birth weight. On the flip side, The Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine concluded in 2009 that periodontal treatment in pregnant woman did not reduce the risk of preterm deliveries.

The discrepancy? High chemical levels in oral bacteria called prostaglandin are found in woman with severe cases of periodontal disease. The question remains if the chemical has labor-inducing tendencies, and if treatment once periodontal disease has already set in effects a mother’s delivery date.

In either case, what can you do to implement good dental care during pregnancy?

Brushing at least twice a day is the first step to good oral health. If you do not floss on a daily basis, pregnancy is the perfect excuse for getting into the habit. You should also visit your dentist every six months to make sure your teeth and gums are handling the pregnancy well.

Should your dentist determine you need additional periodontal care while you are pregnant, seek the advice of a periodontist. Working as a team with your dental professional can be a win-win for your and your new baby.