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Gum Disease: Silent Risk Factor for Pregnant Women
Nov 17, 2016

HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania (Nov. 17, 2016) — United Concordia Dental, a leading dental solutions company focused on wellness, encourages pregnant women to talk to their dentist about gum disease to reduce their risk for preterm labor and delivering a low birth weight baby.

“Today is World Prematurity Day, and we want pregnant women to understand that they are more susceptible to gum disease due to the increase in hormones and blood volume,” said James Bramson, D.D.S., chief dental officer at United Concordia. “Research has shown that bacteria in the mouth can be found in other parts of the body, which could put the baby’s development at risk and trigger early labor.”

Women with gum disease who are pregnant, or who are planning to become pregnant, should talk to their dentist about treating their gum disease and about the advantages of preventive measures such as prescription mouth rinse and deep cleanings. 

“Even before gum disease is diagnosed, soon-to-be-mothers can be proactive about their oral health with an extra cleaning during gestation,” said Dr. Bramson. “Studies show that approximately 35 percent of pregnant women don’t see the dentist at all during pregnancy. United Concordia, through our Smile for Health®—Wellness product, promotes enhanced coverage during pregnancy at no cost to the mother to prevent gum disease and unintended consequences to the baby.”

For oral health resources designed for pregnant women, including an infographic on gum disease during pregnancy, visit UnitedConcordia.com.

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For further information: Beth Rutherford United Concordia Dental 717-260-7659 beth.rutherford@ucci.com Leilyn Perri Highmark Health 717-302-4243 leilyn.perri@highmarkhealth.org