News
 

NB Dental Society has the answers...

...about Cosmetic Procedures

 

Dentists help moms have healthy babies

 

Fredericton, NB - April 15, 2010 - 10 to 14% of babies are born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy). These tiny people may have low birth weight and a plethora of health problems in infancy and throughout their lives.

 

There are many risk factors that contribute to premature birth including smoking, alcohol and drug use by mothers.

 

"Now there is evidence of another risk factor in premature birth," said Dr. Daniel Violette, President of the NB Dental Society. "Periodontal (gum) disease is an oral infection caused by a bacteria. Women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to go into preterm labour and deliver premature babies."

 

Women with gum disease have been shown to have an increased risk of fetal growth restriction resulting in the delivery of low birth weight babies. Gum disease is also implicated in an increased rate of miscarriages and stillbirths. The body's response to the bacteria that causes gum disease may be what stimulates premature labour.

 

Periodontal disease can have profound implications for the mother’s, and the baby's, overall health. Visiting the dentist at least annually may help save both the mother’s and the baby’s life. The dentist can detect gum disease and provide treatment that, combined with good oral hygiene, may help women to deliver healthy, full-term babies, and prevent fatal diseases like heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

 

Good oral hygiene is important - not only because it affects the outcome of pregnancy, but because women with healthier mouths have been shown to have children with healthier mouths as well.