Could your teeth be affecting your fertility? Dentists and doctors have been suspicious for years. The suspicion is that there is a link between untreated oral and gum disease, fertility, and pregnancy outcome. Unfortunately, their suspicions became proof.
A woman in Santa Monica, California, gave birth to a full-term stillborn child. The woman battled severe gum bleeding throughout the pregnancy.
After tests doctors discovered that the bacteria that killed the child was the same responsible for the mother’s gum disease. The bacteria created a terrible infection and stillbirth.
Did you know that nearly three-quarters of expectant mothers will experience bleeding gums during the weeks of their pregnancy? Having solid dental care before and during the pregnancy is very important. It could mean life and death for the baby.
When left untreated gingivitis and other gum disease can cause bleeding gums. Bleeding gums allow bacteria to enter the body, find its way to the fetus, and infect it.
Pregnant woman can prevent gingivitis by brushing and flossing their teeth regularly. They should brush their teeth a minimum of two minutes and three times a day. The most important time to brush teeth is before bed. Food particles left in the mouth overnight become a breeding ground for bacteria. It is also a good idea to brush after consuming sugary foods. Flossing twice a day is essential. Regular flossing rids your mouth of unwanted food particles.
It is also a good idea to have two dental cleanings every year. Cleanings will remove excess plaque and diagnose any gum problems in advance. An early diagnosis of gum disease will significantly decrease the chance of problem infections.
Women with gingivitis or any other gum infection should ask their dentist or oral hygienist for a plan to change their daily oral hygiene routine. Following a plan can be tough if a woman allows it to be tough. If a woman is seriously trying to get pregnant or is already pregnant following a plan will become a necessary and simple habit.
Women with dry mouth are more susceptible to gum disease. A simple solution is to chew sugarless gum. Dentists claim that sugarless gum removes food particles and breaks down bacteria. For severe dry mouth consider using a tongue scraper to reduce bacteria build up on the tongue.
Most pregnant women can avoid gum disease by simply maintaining consistent tooth brushing and flossing habits. Add in the rest of the tips and they greatly decrease the chance of pregnancy complications. Simple prevention may increase chances of conceiving. It can also prevent a bacterial infection in a newborn baby.