Expecting Mothers Should ÏBrush UpÓ on Their Oral Hygiene Routine

Expecting Mothers Should ÏBrush UpÓ on Their Oral Hygiene Routine
November 12, 2007
American Academy of Periodontology

CHICAGOÒNovember 12, 2007ÒWith November being National Prematurity Awareness month, two new studies in the November issue of the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) emphasize the importance of expectant mothers taking extra care of their oral health.

Researchers have long speculated that women with periodontal diseases may have an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. One study of 3,576 Turkish women found that those with periodontal disease were at a greater risk for having a low birth weight and preterm birth babies than those without periodontal disease. In addition, a second study found that nonsurgical treatments for periodontal disease can actually reduce a womanÌs risk for delivering preterm.

ÏOur study found that treating a womanÌs periodontal disease decreased her chances of having her baby early by almost 50%,Ó explained study author Fouzia Tarannum, BDS, M.R. Ambedkar Dental College and Hospital, India. ÏOur research suggests that treatment of periodontal diseases can help the health of the mother and her baby.Ó

ÏThe AAP is dedicated to increasing awareness about the relationship between periodontal diseases and pregnancy,Ó said Susan Karabin, DDS, President of the American Academy of Periodontology. ÏWomen should be sure to brush and floss daily, and see their dental health professional regularly if possible before and certainly during their pregnancy. Working as a team, the dental professional and expectant mother will be able to help deliver a full-term, healthy and happy baby.Ó

Much is being done to help prevent preterm low birth weight births. In honor of National Prematurity Month the AAP has teamed up with the March of Dimes to help support their ÏEvery Baby Has a StoryÓ campaign, aimed at educating expecting mothers about premature births.