Brush Your Teeth to Prevent Premature Birth
In those first few months leading up to a birth, expecting mothers and fathers will do everything possible to ensure the exciting, and more importantly a safe passage of their infant into this world. Most of these actions are simply eating well, regular exercise, and consistent checkups with their prenatal doctor to keep the mother as healthy as possible. There is one very specific area that may be overlooked by a large percentage of expecting mothers: oral hygiene. New studies show that good oral hygiene and a regular dental exam may be a major factor in preventing premature births.
Studies have been released by Case Western Reserve and Yale Universities that directly linked higher pre-term birth percentages to those that have larger quantities of Bergeyella bacteria within their mouths. Much like periodontal disease, this bacterium can have a large effect on the body outside of the mouth. Bergeyella bacteria can find its way outside of the oral cavity through even the smallest cuts and into the bloodstream. Mothers can work closely with our dentist in Torrance as well as their prenatal doctor to come up with a comprehensive and safe plan to keep these bacteria from entering the uterus.
Pre-term births are a phenomenon that still have many doctors from around the world perplexed. While the health community has pinpointed certain indicators and risk factors that can dramatically increase these early births, the numbers continue to rise within specific demographics. Infants that have been born pre-term, or under 40 weeks, are at a dramatically higher risk for SIDS, breathing disorders, and even learning disorders. The earlier that the birth is within the pregnancy, the chances of these problems grow exponentially.
Luckily for mothers, a few good habits will result in a much safer birth and healthier child. Our Torrance cosmetic dentist helps women and their families with dental cleaning, dental sealants, fluoride treatment, and many other services throughout their lives to leave them with a bright and healthy smile.