Expecting Mothers: Maintain Good Oral Health for the Sake of Your Baby!

Entering pregnancy can be a truly exciting season, with the growing anticipation of a new baby and the joys that he or she will bring. Soon-to-be mothers know that it is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle for herself and the baby that is on the way. However, many tend to underestimate how essential good oral health can be. A study published in Public Health Report examined the prevalence of dental care during pregnancy and found that 65% women in the state of California did not go to the dentist during pregnancy.  While 52% of these women reported to have dental problems prenatally, 62% of those women still did not go in to receive proper dental care. It is just as important to keep up with good oral health during pregnancy.

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) recently set out new clinical recommendations, highlighting the importance of maintaining good periodontal health. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic condition where bacteria have attacked the gum tissues and even bone supporting teeth. When nothing is done to alleviate this disease, individuals may end up with tooth loss and even other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Dentists recommend that individuals look out for signs of periodontal disease, including tenderness, swollen gums, and redness. Other symptoms include gums that tend to bleed during eat or brushing, gums that are pulling away from teeth, loose teeth, and halitosis. Many women see these warning signs but choose to ignore them, thinking that this disease would have no effect on their babies. Several studies have indicated that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to give premature births or have babies with low birth weight than mothers with healthy gums. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have stated that babies with weighing less than 5.5 pounds may be at risk of delayed motor skills, learning disabilities, and other long-term health problems. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recently stated that pregnant women should go in for regular dental cleanings during pregnancy.

It is always important to maintain good oral health, regardless of what life stage you are in. Dentists continue to stress good oral hygiene and routine brushing and flossing. If you have any more questions, feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com

References:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2966664/

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130828092310.htm

http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-at-Any-Age/Adults/Oral-Health-and-Pregnancy/article/Pregnancy-Oral-Health-and-Your-Baby.cvsp