Periodontitis During Pregnancy May Lead to Premature Birth

Filed in archive First Trimester , Medical Issues , Miscarriage/Stillbirth on March 25, 2008

If the previous entry does not convince you that you need to take extra care of your dental health during pregnancy, maybe knowing that your oral health might affect your unborn baby will.

There is increasing scientific evidence indicating that Periodontitis, a type of gum disease, increases the risk for premature birth and low birth weights. So while major dental procedures which do not need to be done urgently should be postponed until after the birth, it is important to get a dental check and assessment during the first trimester.

If you need more information regarding oral health and pregnancy, check out the articles at the PerioBirth Project.