Pregnancy Complication Associated With Periodontal Destruction
CHICAGO – March 2, 2005 – Periodontal inflammation plays a possible role in the development of preeclampsia, a potentially
deadly condition that affects approximately
“This finding may pave the way for screening and treating periodontal disease as a preventive method to reduce the occurrence of
preeclampsia,” said
“The chronic inflammation of periodontal infection, together with evidence linking periodontitis with atherosclerosis indicates
a possible association between periodontal disease and preeclampsia,” said
Researchers performed periodontal examinations in pregnant women with and without preeclampsia. The periodontal examination was performed up
to
“Circulating proteins known as cytokines have previously been associated with the cause of preeclampsia,” said Iacono. “Nevertheless, this is the first time that cytokines related to periodontal disease have been implicated. Additional studies will be required to support the findings, including a treatment study designed to eliminate periodontal disease as a preventive measure to reduce the incidence of preeclampsia.”
Most periodontal diseases are chronic inflammatory conditions caused by the body's response to bacterial gum infections that can destroy the gum tissue and supporting bone that hold teeth in the mouth. The main cause of this disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth. Prevention includes daily flossing to break up the bacterial colonies between the teeth, proper daily brushing to prevent plaque buildup and professional cleanings at least twice a year to remove calculus from places the toothbrush and floss may have missed. Since there are often no symptoms of the disease in its early stages, a periodontal evaluation by your dentist or periodontist is the best way to know if you have any periodontal disease.
A referral to a periodontist in your area and
About the AAP
The American Academy of Periodontology is an 8,000-member association of dental professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.For more information, contact the AAP Public Affairs Department at
* EDITOR'S NOTE: Representatives of the media may contact the AAP Public Affairs Department to receive a copy of
the study
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