January 8, 2020

Let’s do a quick pop quiz on the link
between oral health and overall health. What are the benefits of regularly taking
care of your teeth and gums?

  1. Better chance of avoiding
    sickness
  2. Decreased odds
    for diabetes, heart disease, and other diseases
  3. Helps
    in avoiding pregnancy complications
  4. A high-five from an
    impressed Dr. Dental dentist at your next appointment
  5. A super smile
  6. All of the above

If you answered F, you’re right on
the money. All of these things (and more) are optimized by the simple act of daily
brushing and flossing.

But hold on for a minute…what about C?
Can a couple really improve their chances of starting (or adding to) a family
with good oral health care?

Based on recent research, it
certainly looks that way.

During pregnancy, rapidly changing
hormone levels cause many women to develop gingivitis (inflammation of the
gums). In fact, some studies show that nearly 3 in 4 women suffer from
“pregnancy gingivitis.”

Within the past few years, a widely-cited study showed that
women with periodontal disease—which is a direct result of pregnancy gingivitis—were
more likely to suffer “higher risk indicators for adverse pregnancy outcomes,”
including low birth weight.

One thing the recent body of research
makes clear: every woman should take her oral health seriously leading up to,
and during, pregnancy. As a result of the link between gum disease and
pregnancy risks, health agencies have stepped up efforts to bring awareness to this issue.

If you’re planning to become pregnant
or are already pregnant, it’s important to keep an eye on typical gum disease
symptoms, including:

  • Heat and
    cold-sensitive teeth
  • Swollen,
    inflamed, or red gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain around the
    gum line
  • Bleeding gums
  • Discomfort when
    chewing
  • Sensitivity to
    brushing and flossing

Concerned about your oral health as
it relates to pregnancy? Stop by a Dr. Dental office or schedule an appointment online. Our
experts will provide the care and attention you need to ensure optimal oral
health. If you’re a new patient, don’t forget to take advantage of our teeth cleaning
special—just one of our many deals and discounts. Thanks for
visiting Dr. Dental!

Gum Disease and…Pregnancy Complications? What the Latest Research Shows was last modified: January 23rd, 2020 by drdental