Pregnancy elevates the sensitivity of the gums, causing them to swell and bleed. Several grandmothers will tell you that they lost teeth during pregnancy. We’ve known for a while that alcohol, drugs and smoking can cause premature birth. However, research also suggests the inflammatory insult in pregnant women with advanced periodontitis is seven times more likely to have a premature baby. Furthermore, the worsening of a woman’s periodontal condition during pregnancy puts her at a higher risk. It seems that pregnancy stimulates increased levels of biological fluids that cause labor.
Naturally all infections can affect the health of a baby. The American Academy of Periodontology encourages all women considering pregnancy receive a periodontal examination. Pregnant woman should receive cleanings every three months to help control periodontal inflammation.