EXPECTANT MOTHERS’ PERIODONTAL HEALTH VITAL TO HEALTH OF HER BABY
When a woman becomes pregnant, she knows it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure both her own health and the health of her baby. New clinical recommendations from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) urge pregnant women to maintain periodontal health as well.
Periodontal disease is a chronic, bacteria-induced, inflammatory condition that attacks the gum tissue and in more severe cases, the bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to tooth loss. It has also been associated with other systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Several research studies have suggested that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver babies prematurely or with low birth weight than mothers with healthy gums. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), babies with a birth weight of less than 5.5 pounds may be at risk of long-term health problems such as delayed motor skills, social growth, or learning disabilities. Similar complications are true for babies born at least three weeks earlier than the due date. Other issues associated with pre-term birth include respiratory problems, vision and hearing loss, or feeding and digestive problems.
If you, your family or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!
Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda,