Broadway Dentistry
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(260) 456-3406
A Broadway Dentistry hygienist smiling as she talks with a patient in the chair before a cleaning in Fort Wayne

Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy

Patient education

Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy

Research shows that periodontal disease in expectant mothers exposes their unborn child to many risks, particularly if the mother also has diabetes.

How pregnancy raises the risk

Periodontal disease usually begins as a bacterial infection of the gums that destroys gum tissue and the bone beneath. Untreated, the inflammation deepens gum pockets and makes the gums and jawbone recede until teeth loosen and fall out. Pregnancy hormones raise the risk of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontal disease, which studies have linked to preeclampsia, low birth weight and premature birth. Expectant women should seek treatment right away.

A patient talking with a team member in the chair during a dental exam visit at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

Reasons for the connection

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  • ProstaglandinAdvanced periodontal disease appears to raise levels of this labor-inducing compound, found in one strain of periodontal bacteria, which can lead to premature birth and low birth weight.
  • C-reactive protein (CRP)Previously linked to heart disease, CRP is now associated with preeclampsia and premature birth. Gum bacteria entering the bloodstream lead the liver to produce CRP, amplifying inflammation and possibly causing inflamed or blocked arteries, blood clots, strokes or heart attacks.
  • Bacteria spreadGum-pocket bacteria travel through the bloodstream; in pregnant women, oral bacteria have been found in the internal mammary glands and coronary arteries.
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Diagnosis and treatment

Many safe, non-surgical treatments are available, and halting the disease improves the chances of a safe, healthy delivery. The dentist first assesses the gums and jawbone, then may use scaling and root planing to remove tartar and bacterial toxins from the root surfaces and gum pockets. Treatment can cut the risk of related pregnancy complications by as much as 50% and relieves the effects of gingivitis and infection.

Dentists can also advise on home care. Good home care, smoking cessation, dietary changes and vitamin supplements greatly reduce the risks.

If you have questions about periodontal disease and pregnancy, please contact our office.

Risks to Oral Health During Pregnancy

A short video from the American Dental Association.

More on Gum Health

All Gum Health topics
Dr. Denise Acosta and a team member laughing with a young patient in a treatment room at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, where fillings and crowns are done

  1. Perinatal and Infant Oral Health

    Good oral health during pregnancy matters for your baby too. Gum disease is linked with premature birth, low birth weight and preeclampsia.

  2. Bruxism

    Bruxism refers to an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most humans at some point in their lives.

  3. What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

    Periodontal disease is a common inflammatory condition of the gums that, in its most advanced stages, affects the jawbone itself.

  4. Periodontal Disease

    Periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth, and shows as red, swollen and bleeding gums.

  5. About Periodontal Disease

    Periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth, and it is usually painless in its early stages.

  6. Causes of Periodontal Disease

    Periodontal disease, which is also known as gum disease and periodontitis, is a progressive disease which, if left untreated, may result in tooth loss.

New patients welcome

Emergency calls and appointments are available and welcome, especially for new patients seeking help.

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