Gum Disease and Preterm Birth: What's Known, and Gum Treatment in Pregnancy

Severe gum disease has been linked to preterm birth, but it isn't proven to cause it. Link vs. cause, safe gum treatment in pregnancy, and home care.

Many moms feel more anxious after hearing that "gum disease can cause preterm birth." Even a little bleeding from the gums can make you worry about the baby. Here's a look at what's known so far, what's still unknown, and what you can do.

A link has been reported, but the cause isn't proven

First, gum disease comes in different degrees. The gum inflammation (gingivitis) that's common in pregnancy is the stage where the surface of the gums swells and bleeds. With good brushing and care, it settles down. When this inflammation goes on for a long time and damages the bone and tissue that hold the teeth, it's called periodontitis. As periodontitis progresses, the gums can recede and teeth can become loose.

What research talks about is mainly this severe gum disease, periodontitis. Some studies found slightly more preterm births and low-birth-weight babies among pregnant women with periodontitis. But whether gum disease directly causes this hasn't been shown yet.

Two things showing up together doesn't mean one causes the other. There can be many reasons why they appear together, so a link and a cause are two different things.

Also, there isn't enough evidence yet that treating gum disease in pregnancy lowers the rate of preterm birth. Does that mean treatment isn't needed? Not at all. Gum treatment is clearly needed to protect your own gums and teeth, and it's safe during pregnancy. If gum disease is left alone, the inflammation grows and you could even lose teeth.

In short, having gum disease isn't a reason to be anxious about preterm birth. Instead, treat it and take care of it now.

Care and treatment come before worry

At home, here's what to do:

1. Brush gently twice a day with a soft toothbrush, along the gumline where teeth meet gums.
2. Clean between the teeth, where the brush can't reach, with floss once a day.
3. Don't avoid spots that bleed. Brush them more slowly. Brushing less because of bleeding makes the inflammation worse.
4. Use fluoride toothpaste, and cut back on frequent sugary drinks and snacks.

There's also a way to keep an eye on your gums at home. When you brush, look at your gums in the mirror. Healthy gums are firm and don't bleed easily. Gums with natural brown or dark pigment are normal too, so rather than the color, watch for swelling and bleeding that's different from usual. If they look more swollen than usual, a tooth looks longer than before, or a tooth feels loose when you chew, let your dentist know.

At the dentist, here's what happens:

• If your gums bleed or swell, get a gum (periodontal) exam.
• If treatment is needed, don't put it off. Have it now. Cleanings and gum treatment are safe during pregnancy.
• Tell the office how far along you are and what medications you take. It's even better to wrap things up in the second trimester, when visits are most comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

When to see your dentist

• Gum bleeding or swelling keeps going for more than 2 weeks
• Your gums have receded, making a tooth look longer
• A tooth is loose or feels like it shifts when you chew
• Pus comes from the gums, or bad breath has gotten worse
• You haven't had a gum exam since becoming pregnant

English ebook · Dentist Ingyoon An

A guide to the decisions behind dental care

Tooth Calendar follows dental care from pregnancy to eighteen in 78 chapters. Explore the reasons behind feeding, brushing, baby-tooth decay, sedation, and injury decisions—including what can be watched and when to seek help. Age-based contents and a topic index help you find the concern you have today.

Preview & buy on Google Play Books

The information in this article is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional dental care. Talk to a dentist about your child's condition.

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