You’re probably aware that we at your local Epping Dental Clinic are always talking about maintaining good oral health. And yes, you’re probably aware that if you brush and floss your teeth daily and eat a healthy diet, as we advise, then you have a better chance of avoiding future dental problems.
You might also be aware that poor oral health negatively impacts other aspects of your bodily health – such as heart and liver disease and diabetes. So, of course, there are added persuasive benefits to maintaining oral health.
It turns out, too, that good oral health is beneficial for pregnancy!
How on earth? you might wonder. And this will be a pressing question for you if you, a family member or a friend are pregnant at present.
Your local Epping Dentist can tell you that the latest Australian research shows that good oral health helps prevent premature birth (before 37 weeks) and low birth weight (less than 2.5 kg). Obviously, you would want to avoid both of these!
The culprit is apparently gum inflammation (gingivitis), which is very common amongst pregnant women because of the hormonal changes involved in pregnancy. The gum inflammation discharges bacteria into the bloodstream, possibly affecting the placenta.
The good news is that treating gum inflammation during pregnancy halves the risk of premature birth.
So, if you are pregnant (or intending to be pregnant) and haven’t yet visited us, please do so! We can check for any gum inflammation and, if necessary, treat it as soon as possible.
And, of course, you will be extra-careful about brushing and flossing your teeth at this time to avoid developing gingivitis at all.
Being pregnant is such a momentous time in your life – and in the life of your unborn baby! We at your local Epping Dentist are delighted for you, too, and hope that between us, you can have the best of oral health and the best outcome possible for your baby.
To find out more, please click the link for an appointment for a consultation:
