{"id":20701,"date":"2023-07-21T13:42:58","date_gmt":"2023-07-21T18:42:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/?p=20701"},"modified":"2023-09-21T14:51:37","modified_gmt":"2023-09-21T19:51:37","slug":"how-can-oral-health-impact-pregnancy-and-fertility","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/how-can-oral-health-impact-pregnancy-and-fertility\/","title":{"rendered":"How Can Oral Health Impact Pregnancy and Fertility?"},"content":{"rendered":"

There are many factors that contribute to a healthy and successful pregnancy. Couples and individuals who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant must pay special attention to their diets, exercise, sleep patterns, and oral health. Although oral health is often overlooked during pregnancy, it can affect both the health of the mother and the health of the child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral hygiene doesn\u2019t just affect the mouth and teeth, but it can also influence bones, the cardiovascular system, and the immune system. If oral health is overlooked during pregnancy, there could be negative effects for both the mother and the child.<\/span><\/p>\n

What oral health conditions can impact fertility?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Infertility affects more than <\/span>48.5 million couples worldwide<\/span><\/a>. Since this is such a prevalent issue, couples should try to limit factors that could contribute to infertility.<\/span><\/p>\n

Poor oral health can affect fertility in both men and women, making it essential for both partners to prioritize their dental health. Couples trying to become pregnant should visit their local dentist to assess their oral health. Two conditions that could negatively affect fertility include tooth decay and periodontitis.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tooth decay<\/span><\/p>\n

According to a 2018 study, tooth decay is <\/span>linked to male infertility<\/span><\/a>. Tooth decay is when bacteria in plaque eat away at the enamel of your teeth. The decay can cause holes, cracks, and fractures in the enamel (cavities). If left untreated, the teeth can become infected and cause abscesses, facial swelling, fever, and blood infections. In addition, tooth decay can decrease the body\u2019s immune response, affecting men\u2019s ability to produce high-quality sperm.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tooth decay will also allow bacteria from the infected tooth to enter the bloodstream. When this happens, both men and women can suffer infertility issues.<\/span><\/p>\n

You can <\/span>avoid tooth decay<\/span><\/a> by taking care of your teeth. Tooth decay occurs when plaque is allowed to build up on the surface of your teeth. A fast way to look for plaque is to run your tongue over the surface of your teeth. If your teeth feel fuzzy, there\u2019s plaque. You can also scrape a clean fingernail on your teeth \u2013 the sticky, white substance that comes away from the tooth is plaque.<\/span><\/p>\n

Most people can keep plaque away by brushing and flossing their teeth for two minutes in the morning and at night. However, you should also schedule regular dentist appointments for professional tooth cleaning.<\/span><\/p>\n

Periodontitis<\/span><\/p>\n

Gum health<\/span><\/a> is linked to several health conditions, from diabetes to heart disease. Periodontitis, or gum disease, occurs when the gums become inflamed and bloody. Without treatment, periodontitis affects the bones that hold your teeth together, causing your teeth to loosen or fall out.<\/span><\/p>\n

A person with periodontitis will have low fertility, including both men and women. For men, periodontitis will decrease sperm count and quality. <\/span>Periodontitis in women<\/span><\/a> acts similarly to the effects of smoking on fertility, making it more difficult for women to conceive.<\/span><\/p>\n

You can prevent gum disease by practicing good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth, flossing, using mouthwash, and scheduling regular dentist appointments can prevent periodontitis. If you notice inflamed gums, make an appointment with your dentist immediately, as some forms of <\/span>gum disease can progress quickly<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, most studies show that plaque can cause inflamed gums within a few days. After the initial inflammation, plaque will harden into harmful tartar within 48 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n

What pregnancy complications can arise from poor oral health?<\/span><\/h2>\n

In addition to affecting fertility before pregnancy, poor oral health during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications for those who are already pregnant. Knowing how quickly oral diseases can progress, pregnant individuals must be mindful and cautious of their oral health.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without immediate treatment, poor oral hygiene can increase the chances of low birth weight, premature delivery, and pre-eclampsia.<\/span><\/p>\n

Low birth weight<\/span><\/p>\n

Low birth weight is when a baby weighs less than five pounds and eight ounces at birth. In some cases, this won\u2019t affect the baby\u2019s health, even though they\u2019re considered smaller than average. However, low birth weight can <\/span>contribute to other poor health outcomes<\/span><\/a>, including:<\/span><\/p>\n