Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy: What's the Connection?

Periodontal or gum disease affects the soft tissues that hold your teeth in place — i.e. your gums and the bone underneath. If you have gum disease, it means that these soft tissues have suffered damaged from the bacteria in your mouth. Whether or not the condition is reversible depends on how far it has progressed.

Reversible gum disease is known as gingivitis, as the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) explains. This is when the gums become irritated due to poor oral hygiene, leaving them swollen, inflamed and red. You might experience some bleeding as well.

Irreversible gum disease is known as periodontitis. This is occurs when gingivitis is left to progress and, as a result, the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place are destroyed. This can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

As an article in Oral & Implantology states, periodontal disease during pregnancy starts with the accumulation of dental plaque, which can increase due to hormonal action. The changes in a pregnant woman's oral microbiome may also contribute to the development of periodontal disease.

Signs of periodontal disease can be exacerbated in pregnancy. These include:

• Bleeding from the gums
• Formation of pockets between the teeth and the gums

If you notice any of these symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis or pregnancy periodontitis, it's important to see your dental professional as soon as possible for an evaluation.

There is some evidence to support that periodontal disease can increase the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes. According to a study in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, such adverse outcomes may include:

• Preterm labor
• Low birth weight
• Restriction of the baby's growth

Researchers hypothesize that these reactions develop because some bacteria associated with gum disease spread into the fetoplacental unit.

According to the AAP, maintaining healthy gums is important for pregnant women. If gum disease develops, non-surgical treatments are safe for pregnant women.

The AAP outlines that there are other measures pregnant women can take to maintain optimal oral health at home. It's important to continue routine brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease from developing. In addition, you should continue seeing your dental professional regularly during pregnancy. Your dentist will have you complete a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, advise you on appropriate oral hygiene regimes at home and give you a professional cleaning.

It's very important for expectant mothers to recognize the importance of good periodontal health and to discuss this with their dental professional. Maintaining good gum health not only supports the mother's overall health, but it also helps to ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.