Bleeding gums in pregnancy is super common, but it shouldn’t be ignored. A new Australian study has revealed treating gingivitis in pregnancy is linked to a reduced risk of premature birth and low newborn birth weight.

It’s prompted a call for free dental services for pregnant women to get regular check-ups to prevent gum inflammation.

The University of Sydney research found that treating gingivitis, which is gum inflammation that causes bleeding gums, during pregnancy could help reduce the risk of premature birth.

Bleeding gums in pregnancy

While previous studies had found that periodontitis (irreversible severe gum infection) is linked to poor pregnancy outcomes, this is the first time researchers have investigated whether gingivitis (which is common and preventable) is also related to poor pregnancy outcomes.

“Due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy, pregnant women are susceptible to gingivitis, with 60 percent to 75 percent affected, so it’s very common,” explained senior author Professor Joerg Eberhard.

“Oral infection can have systemic effects in the body. Gingivitis releases inflammatory markers and bacteria into the systemic blood stream which may reach the placenta and induce poor pregnancy outcomes such as preterm delivery. Our review found that surprisingly even mild inflammation in the oral cavity, which also includes the gums, can negatively affect pregnancy outcomes including babies born premature or with low birth weight, so it is essential to manage this risk factor.”

The study revealed that if gum inflammation is treated during pregnancy, the risk of a baby being born preterm is reduced by 50%.

“Or the birthweight increases around 100 grams in babies born with low birth weight,” Professor Eberhard said. “In fact, the risk was halved if the mother had good oral health, which is a compelling finding.

“The good news is treatment for gingivitis is very easy to perform and is inexpensive and accessible. A dental check-up and clean every six months should prevent and treat any gum inflammation.”

Call for free pregnancy dental care

The lead author of the study says preventing gingivitis in pregnant women would have huge health benefits.

“It’s important that women and health providers around the world know that taking good care of oral hygiene is not just for the health of the mother but also for her baby,” lead author Quynh Anh Le from Sydney Dental School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, said.

“Regular dental checks, dental cleaning and treatment of any gum inflammation should be a vital part of pregnancy care for all women.”

The researchers say it’s a global public health issue, and could improve birth outcomes worldwide.

“All pregnant women should be encouraged to have dental check-ups and gingivitis treatment if necessary,” said Professor Eberhard.

“Dental services for pregnant women should be provided free of charge to encourage mothers to get regular checks during their pregnancy to prevent any gum inflammation.”

The researchers say they’re not suggesting gum inflammation is the single factor for preterm birth and low birth weight, but that  gum health should be a part of prenatal care.

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