Periodontal disease, an infection that undermines gums and jaw bone, has been linked to preeclampsia. Developing in the second and third trimesters, preeclampsia involves hypertension, swelling and protein in the urine. Untreated, it can lead to seizures, strokes—and even death. A recent U.S. study reporting on 763 moms found that those with severe periodontal disease had twice the risk of preeclampsia as their gum-healthy peers. “The high hormone levels of pregnancy increase the chance of gum disease,” says Toronto dentist Dr. Frank Satira. “Moms-to-be should brush, floss and have a prenatal checkup and cleaning.”
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Gum Disease and Preeclampsia
After seeing her obstetrician, a pregnant woman's next stop should be her dentist.
February 16th, 2007
By Diana Swift
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