Periodontal Disease May Lead to Pregnancy Diabetes

Filed in archive Medical Issues on March 28, 2008

If the two previous entries on dental health and pregnancy still aren't enough to spur you to book that appointment with your dentist for a check, maybe knowing this will: periodontal disease may lead to pregnancy diabetes.

"In addition to its potential role in preterm delivery, evidence that gum disease may also contribute to gestational diabetes suggests that women should see a dentist if they plan to get pregnant, and after becoming pregnant," says Dasanayake. "Treating gum disease during pregnancy has been shown to be safe and effective in improving women's oral health and minimizing potential risks."

It appears that Hispanics, Asians, and native americans are at the highest risk for developing gestational diabetes, but no matter what race you belong to, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.