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Oral health & pregnancy
Posted 1/16/2013 Updated 2/1/2013
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by Capt. Dannon Sutherland
65th Medical Operations Squadron
1/16/2013 - LAJES FIELD, Azores -- The mouth is the gateway to the body, so it makes sense that a healthy oral environment can have a positive effect on overall health. It has long been known that poor oral health can increase someone's risk of developing heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes; but recent studies have shown that the expecting mother's oral health can have a serious impact on her pregnancy and the unborn child's oral health.
According to some studies, maternal gum disease can increase the risk of having a premature birth, pregnancy high blood pressure, and a low-birth weight of the child. Periodontitis is a chronic bacterial infection of the gum tissue and supporting bone that causes inflammation and can eventually lead to tooth loss. The authors of one study speculate that this increase in adverse birth outcomes is due to the plaque bacteria originating from the mother's mouth which then is released into the bloodstream affecting the overall health of both mother and child. But on a positive note, similar studies have shown that expecting mothers who received treatment for their gum disease had a lower prevalence of these conditions than mothers who forego treatment.
Also, the mother's oral health can highly influence the chance of their child developing cavities. Dental cavities happen due to the breakdown of the enamel from the acid-producing bacteria found in plaque. Cavity-causing bacteria are usually transferred to infants directly or indirectly by saliva. Women that have had multiple or existing cavities usually have more cavity-causing bacteria present in their mouths and can transfer those bacteria to their children. While 28% of US children suffer one or more cavities between the ages of 2-5, the chance of developing cavities is very preventable by good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, fluoride use/consumption, xylitol gum chewing, and a healthy sugar-reduced diet. Your dentist is able to advise on what course of action is best for you and your child.
Fortunately, most dental problems are preventable. It is important for women who are trying to become pregnant or are expecting to have regular dental check-ups to ensure there are no serious dental issues or concerns.
If you have any concerns regarding your oral health while you are pregnant, contact the dental clinic (535-3261/Option #2 or 295-57-3261/Option #2) to request an examination.
References:
Boggess, Kim A., Edelstein, Burton L. Oral health in Women During Preconception and Pregnancy: Implications for Birth Outcomes and Infant Oral Health. Matern Child Health J (2006) 10: S169-S174
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