Continued dental care and improving an expectant mother’s oral health is an important part of the overall maternal care offered during pregnancy. Normal dental conditions that develop during a woman’s pregnancy include:
Recent studies have demonstrated a significant correlation between the oral health status of pregnant women and the outcomes of their pregnancies. Poor oral health, particularly gum disease, has been identified as a potential risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, low birth weight and preeclampsia.
The link between gum disease and systemic inflammation is a key factor in understanding how oral health can impact pregnancy. When a pregnant woman suffers from gum disease, the oral bacteria in the mouth have the potential to enter the bloodstream, leading to the activation of inflammatory mediators. These inflammatory chemicals can traverse the placental barrier and potentially pose a threat to the developing fetus.
Moreover, pregnant women afflicted with gum disease exhibit elevated levels of inflammatory markers in their blood, which further heightens the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
According to one study published in The Journal of the American Dental Association:
By sharing knowledge and expertise, you and your team can assist pregnant patients to: