ESTABLISHING THE LINK BETWEEN GUM DISEASE AND A HEALTHY PREGNANCY
According to The Journal of the American Dental Association, Pregnant women with chronic gum disease are four to seven times more likely to have a premature baby. Pregnancy is a time of great expectations, however, few expectant mothers understand the importance of good dental health during pregnancy. Pregnancy causes a variety of hormonal changes and some of these changes bring an increased risk of gum disease. The elevated levels of progesterone that come with pregnancy, cause an exaggerated response to the bacteria present in plaque, which can cause gingivitis.
Warning signs include gums that bleed easily or are red, swollen or tender. Gums that have pulled away from the teeth, or are loose or separating are also possible signs of gum disease. However, when gum disease goes untreated in pregnant women, very serious problems can result.
According to research published by the US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, premature and low-birthweight babies are 40 times more likely to die during their first month. Premature infants are also vulnerable to complications including chronic lung disease, injury to the intestines, a compromised immune system, cardiovascular disorders, and hearing and vision problems.
According to the Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine, the bacteria that cause inflammation in the gums can get into the bloodstream and reach the fetus. In scientific terms, gum disease can produce endotoxins that stimulate the production of cytokines and prostaglandins. This fetal toxicity, or poisoning, that can result from bacterial infections can cause low-birthweight babies.