The mouth is often referred to as the “gateway to the body” and “mirror of health” because it says so much about a person’s overall health. In 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) one Explanation passed, which emphasizes that maintaining a healthy oral cavity can reduce the risk of wider health problems. Good oral health is particularly relevant for pregnant women, as various studies have shown. Taking care of your teeth and gums is important at every stage of life. The Journal of Dental Research notes in its 2019 article that periodontal disease — a severe form of gingivitis that usually develops from a milder inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) — is associated with over 50 conditions, including Diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. The specialist magazine mentions additional aspects for pregnant women that indicate a connection between periodontitis and negative pregnancy outcomes, such as a low birth weight of the infant, premature birth or excessively high maternal blood pressure (pre-eclampsia).¹
Decrease in the rate of premature births and systemic inflammation
A randomized, controlled pilot study from the USA, in which 67 pregnant women with a poor periodontal status took part, supports the thesis. The participants had undergone non-surgical scaling and root planing (deep cleaning of the teeth) during pregnancy, while also receiving a Philips Sonicare electric toothbrush to use at home. Preliminary results indicate a 3.8-fold reduction in preterm birth rates and reductions in various molecular markers of systemic (whole-body) inflammation.²
60 to 75 percent are affected by pregnancy gingivitis
Starting a pregnancy with healthy teeth and gums is of great benefit. Women should also watch out for deterioration in their oral health during gestation. Because hormonal changes can lead to dry mouth, which in turn leads to a change in the buffering capacity of the saliva, which promotes the spread of plaque biofilm. This leads to increased gingivitis, just like changes in the tissue of the oral mucosa. This so-called “pregnancy gingivitis” has been shown to affect 60 to 75 percent of pregnant women.³ In some cases, it can progress to periodontitis, which increases the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes and other health problems⁴. It is all the more important to maintain and closely monitor oral health.
Measures to maintain oral health
Dentists say that thorough brushing for two minutes twice a day and regular dental check-ups are the best ways to fight plaque build-up and prevent pregnancy gingivitis.⁵ However, there are other ways to maintain good oral health, such as regular use of Flossing or switching from a manual toothbrush to an electric model. Pregnant women who suffer from morning sickness should also rinse their mouth out with water after vomiting and then wait at least an hour before brushing their teeth.⁶ This is because the low pH value in the mouth caused by acid reflux attacks the enamel surface . This can cause enamel and dentin abrasion with immediate brushing, while rinsing with water instantly dilutes the acid, raises the pH and neutralizes.
More information at: https://www.philips.de/c-e/pe/dental-professionals/zahnmedizinische-indikation/oral-and-overall-health and: www.philips.com/hebammen
literature
¹ Beck JD, Papapanou PN, Philips KH, Offenbacher S. Periodontal Medicine: 100 Years of Progress. J Dent Res. 2019 Sep;98(10):1053-1062. doi: 10.1177/0022034519846113. PMID: 31429666.
² Offenbacher S, Lin D, Strauss R, McKaig R, Irving J, Barros SP, Moss K, Barrow DA, Hefti A, Beck JD. Effects of periodontal therapy during pregnancy on periodontal status, biologic parameters, and pregnancy outcomes: a pilot study. J Periodontol. 2006 Dec;77(12):2011-24. doi: 10.1902/jop.2006.060047. PMID: 17209786
³ Steinberg BJ. Women’s oral health issues. J Dent Educ. 1999;63(3):271-275.
⁴ Sanz M, Kornman K; working group 3 of the joint EFP/AAP workshop. Periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes: consensus report of the Joint EFP/AAP Workshop on Periodontitis and Systemic Diseases. J Periodontol. 2013;84(4 Suppl):S164-S169. doi:10.1902/jop.2013.1340016
⁵ https://www.nhsinform.scot/ready-steady-baby/pregnancy/looking-after-yourself-and-your-baby/looking-after-your-teeth-and-gums-in-pregnancy
⁶ https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/bleeding-gums/
What: Philips