Possible Link Identified Between Gum Disease And Premature Births

Thu, 20 Sep 2007

Pregnant women in the UK have been urged to take extra care of their teeth by the British Dental Health Foundation, after a study revealed a possible link between gum disease and premature labour .

The study, conducted by the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Chile and published in the Journal of Periodontology, found that hormone changes during pregnancy make women more prone to oral health problems such as gum disease .

But, scientists are now warning that there could also be a relationship between gum disease and premature births following results from tests where one in three women, at risk of premature labour, were presented with gum disease bacteria in their amniotic fluid and their mouth.

Amniotic fluid is the liquid that surrounds an unborn baby and according to scientists, any disruption to this fluid could pose a health risk to both mother and baby, which could include the risk of gum disease .

Chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, explained: "Many women find that hormone changes cause their oral health to get worse during pregnancy ."

"Some women find their gums bleed more easily, while people who already have gum disease may find that it progresses more rapidly."

"In addition some women may find that taking care of their teeth becomes less of a priority while they are pregnant and this can also have a big impact.

Dr Carter added: "While this study doesn't prove that gum disease leads to premature births it does suggest there could be a link and that poor oral healthcare could have an impact on an unborn baby ."

The BDA foundation has offered advice for expectant mothers concerned about their oral health, which includes the importance of brushing twice-a-day with fluoride toothpaste, reducing daily sugar intakes and visiting the dentist on a regular basis.

More information and advice is available at the BDA website: www.dentalhealth.org.uk
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