If you are pregnant, you probably already know how important it is to take care of your body during this exciting time. A good, nutritious diet, regular moderate exercise and adequate sleep help protect both your health and the health of your baby. But what you may not already know is how important your oral health is during pregnancy also.
Recent research has suggested that women with periodontal disease may have a higher risk of unwanted childbirth complications, such as pre-term labor and low birth weight of the baby. However, luckily, the opposite is also true! A thorough exam by your oral health professional may decrease the chance that you will have these pregnancy and labor problems.
Now we may have you wondering, “What exactly is periodontal disease?” Simply put, it is “gum disease”, a chronic inflammatory condition in the gums that is caused by the presence of bacteria.
So what can you do about it? To ensure the best health outcome for you and your baby, in addition to receiving regular medical care from your obstetrician, be sure to see your oral health professional on schedule during your pregnancy as well. And, as always, practice good dental hygiene at home with routine brushing and flossing.
These simple steps that we all should be doing anyway might just save you and your baby from potentially serious complications when the birthday comes!