by Aliyeus J

Created on: February 15, 2011

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about women’s oral health during pregnancy. The issue caught the attention of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAP) in 2009, when they decided to set new guidelines to assist pregnant women in oral health care for the prevention of gum disease. Apparently, there is a direct link between mothers with gum disease, and preterm birth that could cause serious complications for an infant due to low weight.

Pregnancy gingivitis is an unpleasant condition of gum disease, resulting in symptoms of inflammation, and bleeding of the gums. Due to the consequences of hormonal changes in pregnant women, estrogen and progesterone begin secreting in greater concentrations. And although this is a defense mechanism for the body, preparing the woman for the journey ahead, it can also result in a sort of chaotic effect, causing a variety of issues, including pregnancy gingivitis.   

Statistics show that 50-75% of all pregnant women develop this type of gingivitis. The condition will usually go away shortly after birth, but it should be closely monitored by a dentist before developing into the more serious condition of periodontitis. Like gingivitis, periodontitis is linked to preterm birth. And this advanced form of the gum disease can make the complication of preterm birth 7 times more likely. It is a possible contingency that is due in part, to the presence of prostaglandin, a chemical thought to induce labor, which has been found in high levels among women with periodontitis.   

So, although the need for proper dental hygiene is apparent, the AAP suggests several other guidelines to help with women’s oral health during pregnancy. The following is a summary of their suggestions:

Become Educated

Many women simply are not aware of the link between gum disease and complications during pregnancy. Counseling, and intervention of health care providers can provide mothers with the necessary tools and resources for realizing the importance of practicing good oral health care.

Brush and Floss

The AAP suggests using the correct techniques of brushing and flossing, as this will go a long way in helping to remove the bacterial plaque which has been linked to preterm birth.

Make Use of Fluoride

Pregnant women are advised to use fluoridated toothpaste, and an alcohol-free, fluoride rinse. The rinse can be found at most pharmacies.

Practice a Proper Diet

Having a proper diet will limit sugar intake, and therefore help to prevent plaque buildup.

Treat Existing Conditions of Tooth Decay

According to experts, dental treatment during pregnancy is completely safe. And it is advised by the AAP, that pregnant women visit their dentist to treat any existing tooth decay. This will help to remove further bacteria associated with decayed teeth.

Chew Xylitol Gum

Research has shown that xylitol gum may decrease tooth decay in children. The AAP suggests expectant mothers also chew the gum, four times a day.      

Pregnant women may have little chance of reversing the probability of a preterm birth when there is a pre-existing condition of severe gum disease. Dental care during pregnancy can help, but there are no guarantees.

It is of course, best to address gum disease before pregnancy. And getting a dental checkup before trying to conceive would be the best course of action to take, if at all possible.

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