Chances are you know someone whose baby required neonatal intensive care, or is a “NICU” baby.
It’s estimated that as many as 15% of babies born in the United States may require at least some care in the hospital NICU when they are born, with the average NICU hospitalization lasting two weeks or longer.
As part of NICU Awareness Month, it’s important for dental care providers to educate patients about the risks their oral health may play in the health of their child’s birth.
Conditions like periodontal disease can allow oral bacteria to spread directly through the bloodstream and placenta, into the amniotic fluid around your unborn child. Data shows that women who have periodontitis while pregnancy are more likely to face challenges like:
• Preeclampsia
• Pre-term birth
• Babies born with a low birth weight
…and, unfortunately, stillbirth. Studies show that as many as 25% of stillbirths are associated with an active infection in the mother’s body, which can include periodontal disease. Sadly, oral bacteria associated with dental diseases have been found when examining the placenta after a stillbirth.(1)
If you’re currently pregnant or planning on getting pregnant, one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health is to ensure you’re free of co-existing infections like periodontal disease.
If you haven’t already, be sure to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning, as well as a screening for periodontal disease. These preventative visits are perfectly safe to complete during your pregnancy. However, be sure to let your dental team know if you suspect that you could be pregnant.
Periodontal disease can cost you more than just your smile. Don’t overlook symptoms like swollen, sensitive, or bleeding gums. Call your dentist today.
1. Han, Y., et al; Term stillbirth caused by oral fusobacterium nucleate. Obstet Gynecol (2010). 115(2 Pt 2): 442-445.