Pregnancy and your gums

When you find out you’re pregnant, your gums are probably one of the last things on your mind. Yet, research suggests that taking care of your teeth and gums should be at the top of your list, along with picking out a name and buying diapers. The American Academy of Periodontology estimates that about half of pregnant women experience gingivitis. The symptoms of gingivitis range from swelling and redness to bleeding and tissue tenderness. This may seem like a small concern in relation to having a baby, but researchers have discovered a link between periodontal disease and pre-term births.

According to the AAP, pregnant women with periodontal disease are up to seven times more likely to give birth early, meaning they are at risk of having an underdeveloped or low-weight baby. The cause of this link is thought to be a chemical called prostaglandin, which, in high levels, can cause labor to be induced. Fortunately, women who receive treatment for their gingivitis and periodontal disease can reduce their chances of having a pre-term birth. If you’re pregnant, make an appointment with your dentist so you can clear up any problems right away. Dentists can remove plaque and tartar from the gums and help you get rid of any signs of gingivitis, leaving you with a healthy and low-risk pregnancy.

Connection between gum disease and heart disease

It’s long been suspected that poor gum health can contribute to heart disease, and a new study in the Journal of Periodontology has found more evidence to support this theory. The study focused on the inflammatory nature of both conditions, explaining that chronic inflammation can lead to dysfunction of the affected tissues and severe complications. It was suggested that as one of the conditions worsens, the other is exacerbated as well. Researchers recommend that periodontists and cardiologists collaborate to increase awareness of the connection among their patients.

To do this, periodontists may speak out more frequently about the effects of gum disease on heart health, while cardiologists may inspect a patient’s mouth for basic signs of gum disease as part of their examination. To find out more about your own gum health, talk to a dentist on your True Care Advantage dental plan and ask about the connection between your gums and heart. Improving one could mean improving your total overall health.

Is there too much sugar in your diet?

We all know that eating a lot of sugar can have negative effects on our physical health. It can cause weight gain, energy swings and a weakened immune system. But what effects does sugar have on your oral health?

According to the American Dental Association, when bacteria/plaque comes into contact with sugar in a person’s mouth, the acid that gets produced can damage teeth for 20 minutes or longer. Over time, this damage results in tooth decay. In addition, foods that are high in sugar are often filled with empty calories and lack other nutrients that are good for your health. These sugary foods can lead to poor nutrition, which the ADA suggests can lead to faster progression of gum disease... (read more)