Symptoms of gum disease to watch out for include tenderness, swelling, redness or bleeding when the teeth are brushed. The Foundation recommends following these easy steps to maintain a healthy mouth:
* Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Use floss to remove plaque from the gaps between your teeth.
* Cut down on how often you have sugary food and drink.
* Visit your dentist regularly. Pregnant women and nursing mothers who are also NHS patients are entitled to free dental treatment.
Last year, research published in JADA, The Journal of the American Dental Association, showed an association between the presence of periodontal infection (disease of the gums and surrounding tissue) at 21 to 24 weeks pregnancy and premature birth. However, the authors say that further studies are needed to determine whether periodontitis is the cause. In the meantime, they recommend that pregnant women should be advised about the importance of good oral health.
A free leaflet 'Dental care for mother and baby' is available from the British Dental Health Foundation on 0870 770 4014. Further advice can be obtained from the Foundation's qualified dental advisors between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday on 0870 333 1188.
