Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Your Oral Health Can Affect Your Unborn Baby

Studies have shown that gum disease or gingivitis may actually harm your unborn baby's health. Studies have found that women with severe gum disease are up to seven more times more likely to deliver significantly prematurely, before 32 weeks, than women with healthy gums. Current studies of gingivitis in pregnancy point to a risk level for prematurity comparable to that of heavy drinking ( more then 10 drinks a week ) and somewhat higher than most estimates for smoking. Premature babies have a wide range of health problems immediately after birth and often have a more long term complication than full term babies born after 37 weeks.
Besides delivering early, women with pregnancy gingivitis may also have smaller babies, whether they are born early or at term. Studies found that women with pregnancy gingivitis were more than three times as likely to deliver a low birth weight baby. This estimate is comparable to the well documented risk posed by smoking during pregnancy.
How can gingivitis lead to premature birth? The explanation is that when you have gingivitis, the bacteria found in plaque can enter your bloodstream through your mouth. Your body responds to infections by trauma by producing chemicals called prostaglandins, which are also a signal for labor to start. Your immune system produces prostaglandins, which can cause uterine contractions and send you into early labor.
Besides brushing your teeth and flossing daily, you should have your teeth cleaned professionally cleaned during your pregnancy. You should also schedule a comprehensive examination with your dental office. If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 561-394-9000. We are here to help you maintain the best dental heath possible!

Lea P. Goldstein

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.