A new study has found that pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to experience early labour than those with healthy gums.
The new study was published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology and revealed that women who experienced premature labour were 45 per cent more likely to have gum disease than those who experienced a normal labour. Read on to find out more about this study, and why its findings are so significant …
The ins-and-outs of the research
During the study, researchers examined both the oral health and pregnancies of around 150 women. Through the course of the study, they found that the women who went into labour earlier than expected had a gum health score four times lower than those who did not experience premature labour. The researchers also found that the women who went into early labour had around eight times more plaque, and that early birth rates tended to be more common for women who had untreated tooth decay.
What are the implications?
The findings of this study suggest that there is a strong link between one’s oral health and overall wellness. By taking care of your teeth and gums, it is possible to increase your chances of a healthy, timely labour. Although it can be difficult to maintain optimal oral health throughout pregnancy because of hormonal changes that often cause pregnancy gingivitis and other issues, it is essential to try and stick to a stringent oral health routine.
What should we do about it?
If you are pregnant, it is best to maintain good oral health practices by brushing and flossing twice a day. This will help to keep plaque under control, and gum disease at bay. We also recommend that you come in and see us for regular dental check-ups and cleans.
Whether you are expecting a baby or not, it’s a good idea to see us at least once every six months so that we can make sure your mouth, teeth and gums are in good condition. Regular dental assessments can ensure that any potential oral health issues are detected in their early stages and that they can be treated quickly to avoid complications at a later stage.
Remember that your oral health has a direct impact on other parts of your body. If you’re ready to make an appointment, please get in touch with us here.
