Gum Disease and Pregnancy

Posted on May 12, 2017May 19, 2021 by Richard H. Nagelberg, DDS

In recognition of National Women’s Health week that begins May 14, I encourage all readers to view the 3 minute attached video. Kim Miller has recorded a highly informative video on pregnancy and periodontal disease. Among the central points in this discussion is that healthy gums do not bleed. Kim makes the point that periodontal bacteria can enter the mother’s bloodstream, cross the placental barrier and potentially have an adverse effect on the developing fetus. There is also a recommendati...

5 Medical Facts that Every Dentist Simply Must Know

Posted on May 5, 2017May 19, 2021 by Jennifer Rankin DDS

5 Medical Facts that Every Dentist Simply MUST Know. . . There is a well-substantiated link between oral health and certain systemic diseases.1 Diseases can lower the body’s resistance to infection, making it more susceptible to developing or exacerbating periodontal disease. Pregnant women with periodontal disease tend to have earlier term babies and babies of lower birth weight.2 Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s Syndrome and even Alzheimer’s can affect oral health.3 Recent ...

Pregnancy and Periodontal Disease: It’s All About Prevention

Posted on November 18, 2016May 12, 2021 by Richard H. Nagelberg, DDS

There is a large body of research examining the potential association between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Even a casual examination of the research reveals inconsistent conclusions regarding the effect of gum disease on preterm birth and other adverse pregnancy outcomes including preeclampsia. There is a similar level of inconsistency in the interventional studies. Some showed a reduction in preterm births following periodontal therapy and others did not. One study, b...