EXPECTANT MOTHERS' PERIODONTAL HEALTH VITAL TO HEALTH OF HER BABY When a woman becomes pregnant, she knows it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure both her own health and the health of her baby. New clinical recommendations from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EPP) urge pregnant women to maintain periodontal health as well. Periodontal disease is a chronic, bacteria-induced, inflammatory condition that attacks the gum tissue and in more severe cases, the bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to tooth loss. It has also been associated with other systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Tenderness, redness, or swollen gums are a few indications of periodontal disease. Other symptoms include gums that bleed with toothbrushing or eating, gums that are pulling away from the teeth, bad breath, and loose teeth. These signs, especially during pregnancy, should not be ignored and may require treatment from a dental professional. Several research studies have suggested that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver babies prematurely or with low birth weight than mothers with healthy gums. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), babies with a birth weight of less than 5 .5 pounds may be at risk of long-term health problems such as delayed motor skills, social growth, or learning disabilities. Similar complications are true for babies born at least three weeks earlier than the due date. Other issues associated with pre-term birth include respiratory problems, vision and hearing loss, or feeding and digestive problems. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL 1886655 EXPECTANT MOTHERS' PERIODONTAL HEALTH VITAL TO HEALTH OF HER BABY When a woman becomes pregnant, she knows it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure both her own health and the health of her baby. New clinical recommendations from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EPP) urge pregnant women to maintain periodontal health as well. Periodontal disease is a chronic, bacteria-induced, inflammatory condition that attacks the gum tissue and in more severe cases, the bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to tooth loss. It has also been associated with other systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Tenderness, redness, or swollen gums are a few indications of periodontal disease. Other symptoms include gums that bleed with toothbrushing or eating, gums that are pulling away from the teeth, bad breath, and loose teeth. These signs, especially during pregnancy, should not be ignored and may require treatment from a dental professional. Several research studies have suggested that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver babies prematurely or with low birth weight than mothers with healthy gums. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), babies with a birth weight of less than 5 .5 pounds may be at risk of long-term health problems such as delayed motor skills, social growth, or learning disabilities. Similar complications are true for babies born at least three weeks earlier than the due date. Other issues associated with pre-term birth include respiratory problems, vision and hearing loss, or feeding and digestive problems. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL 1886655