NDA Journal 20 Ed De Andrade, DDS Brian Iriye, MD NDA President’s Spring Message Pregnancy is complicated by unique physiologic changes that adversely affect oral health disorders. Data has shown that routine preventative and therapeutic oral care and procedures are not associated with an increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes. For this edition of the NDA Journal, I would like to introduce Brian Iriye, MD who I have asked to submit the following article. Oral health is an essential component of overall physical health. Over the past couple of decades, associations of dental conditions with cardiovascular disease,1 pulmonary disorders such as pneumonia and COPD,2 and diabetes,3 as well as other disease processes. During pregnancy, conditions such as periodontal disease have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight.4 Pregnancy is complicated by unique physiologic changes that adversely affect oral health disorders. Data has shown that routine preventative and therapeutic oral care and procedures are not associated with an increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, multiple organizations within the U.S. have issued an evidence-based guideline on perinatal oral health during the pregnancy episode, and the first national health guidelines were issued in 2012.5 Guidelines From That Conference Included • Routine dental visits every six months or sooner with specific concerns. • Brush teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and floss daily. • Rinse daily with alcohol-free mouth rinse. • After eating, chew xylitol- containing gum or use similar mints to decrease bacteria that cause decay. • Minimize sugar consumption and eat healthy foods. Nevertheless, there is still confusion among some dental health providers regarding dental visits during pregnancy. Asking for a letter for clearance for routine dental prophylaxis has decreased but still is not an uncommon event. The national oral health guidelines developed in 2012 have given excellent suggestions to improve care.5 The Importance of Dental Health for Pregnancy NDA President’s Message
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