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Now that you are pregnant you need to take even better care of your teeth and gums. Not only for your health, but also for the health of your baby. During pregnancy you will experience significant changes, including changes in your oral health "pregnancy gingivitis" is a condition that commonly occurs in the second or third month of pregnancy and can become more severe up through the eighth month.

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy cause a greater reaction of dental plaque, resulting in an increased amount of swelling, bleeding and redness of the gums. This condition has not previously been cause for serious medical concern, possibly due to the belief that the gum disease would subside following baby's delivery. However, there now is another reason for pregnant women to pay more attention to their oral health.

How does this affect your baby?
New research suggests a link between gum disease in pregnant women and premature low birth weight babies. Conducted by researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, this recent study suggests that every year as many as 45,500 premature births may be linked to gum disease. That's 18% of the 250,000 premature babies born every year, which is more than those attributed to smoking and alcohol use combined.

What the research shows:
The bacteria P. gingivalis is known to be the primary cause of gum infection. This organism can travel via your blood stream to sites far from the mouth, even to the uterus. P. gingivalis carries substances that can trigger the production of chemicals called "prostaglandins" in the reproductive tract. These prostaglandins are suspected to induce premature labor, resulting in low birth weight babies.

What can you do?
Since your oral health has implications that directly affect your pregnancy, it is extremely important to pay close attention to the signs of gum disease. Dental professionals recommend having more frequent dental cleanings. It is also important to maintain a proper daily oral care routine, including brushing and flossing. If tenderness, bleeding or gum swelling occur at any time during your pregnancy, see your dentist or dental hygienist immediately.

What to share with your Dental Professional:
Is your pregnancy high risk?
In which month of pregnancy are you?
Have you noticed any changes in your oral health?
Are you taking any medications?
Have you noticed inflammation, swelling, redness or bleeding?
Have you noticed any loose teeth?

Concern for your total health including oral care is critical to your unborn baby's development. Early identification of oral health problems such as gum disease may help reduce the risk of premature labor.

For more information on the possible link between your periodontal health and premature labor, please contact your dentist, dental hygienist, OB/GYN or childbirth instructor.

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