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New clinical recommendations from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) advise pregnant women to sustain dental health in order to avoid periodontal disease.

According to recent research gathered by the AAP and EFP, it has been revealed that women with periodontal disease may be at risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as giving birth to a premature or low-birth weight baby.

Periodontal disease is a chronic, bacteria-induced, inflammatory condition that attacks the gum tissue and in more acute cases, the bone holding the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can cause tooth loss and has been linked with other systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

"Tenderness, redness, or swollen gums are a few indications of periodontonal disease. Other symptoms include gums that bleed with toothbrushing or eating, gums that are pulling away from the teeth, bad breath, and loose teeth. These signs, especially during pregnancy, should not be ignored and may require treatment from a dental professional,” said President of the AAP and a practicing periodontist in Independence, Missouri, Dr. Nancy L. Newhouse, DDS, MS.

Numerous research studies have shown that women with periodontal disease may be susceptible to deliver babies prematurely or with low-birth weight than mothers with healthy gums.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), babies with a birth weight of less than 5.5 pounds may be at risk of long-term health problems such as delayed motor skills, social growth, or learning disabilities. Similar complications are also associated for babies born at least three weeks earlier than the estimated due date. Other issues linked with premature birth include respiratory problems, vision, and hearing loss, or feeding, and digestive problems.

Both medical and dental communities agree that preserving periodontal health is an essential component of a healthy pregnancy. The clinical recommendations released by the AAP and the EFP state that non-surgical periodontal therapy is safe for pregnant women, and can lead to improved periodontal health.

Published simultaneously in the Journal of Periodontology and Journal of Clinical Periodontology, the report issues guidelines for both dental and medical professionals to use in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease in pregnant women. Furthermore, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recently released a statement supporting pregnant women to maintain their oral health and recommended regular dental cleanings throughout pregnancy.

"Routine brushing and flossing, and seeing a periodontist, dentist, or dental hygienist for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation during pregnancy may decrease the chance of adverse pregnancy complications. It is important for expectant mothers to monitor their periodontal health and to have a conversation with their periodontist or dentist about the most appropriate care. By maintaining your periodontal health, you are not only supporting your overall health, but also helping to ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby,” said Newhouse.