How Treating Gingivitis Can Reduce Preterm Birth Risk

Science Says, Treating Your Gums During Pregnancy Can Help Your Baby.

We all know how important it is to take care of yourself during pregnancy. But there's one part of your body that often gets left out of the prenatal checklist: your gums.

A study from the University of Sydney has revealed something powerful—treating gum disease during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth. This isn’t just about oral health anymore; it’s about giving your baby the best possible start in life.

Can Treating Your Gums During Pregnancy Help Your Baby? Science Says Yes.

The study analysed data from over 17,000 pregnant women. Researchers looked specifically at whether treating gingivitis—a mild form of gum disease —during pregnancy had any impact on birth outcomes.

Here’s what they found:

• Pregnant women who received treatment for gingivitis had a 56% lower risk of giving birth prematurely.

• Treatment was also linked to babies being born an average of 105 grams heavier.

🧠 Think about the implications. A simple, non-invasive dental treatment can play a role in helping babies stay in the womb longer and be born stronger.

And it’s not about expensive dental procedures. We’re talking about basic gum care—removing plaque, reducing inflammation, and keeping the mouth's oral tissues healthy.

But Why Would Gum Health Affect a Pregnancy?

When you have gingivitis, your gums are inflamed. And inflammation doesn’t stay in one place. It can travel through the bloodstream, triggering responses in other parts of the body. In pregnancy, that may affect the placenta, the immune system, and even induce preterm labour.

In other words, your body doesn’t separate oral health from the rest of your health—and neither should we.

Here's what it means to you

Babies can benefit from something as simple as a dental cleaning.

If you’re pregnant, planning to be, or know someone who is—this matters.

It shifts the way we should think about prenatal care. It’s not just about vitamins and ultrasounds. It’s about recognising the mouth as part of the whole health picture. And the best part? It’s preventable.

Treating gingivitis is safe, accessible, and evidence-based. And, now we know—it could also protect your baby.

Here in Aotearoa, we’re still having the debate about whether dental care should be free. That’s a conversation for another day. But one thing is clear:

Gum disease is preventable. And, prevention doesn’t require wealth—just awareness and some slight changes to our daily routine.

At Easy Dental, we’re here to make that awareness actionable. Our free app includes a Periodontal (Gum Disease) Risk Assessment—so you’re not left guessing. 📲 Download the EasyDental App and find out if you’re at risk of gum disease. #LoveYourSmile

All our content is grounded in scientific research. If you're interested in reading more into this topic, feel free to explore not only the articles mentioned below but also other scientific studies and research papers that provide valuable insights. Science is a vast and ever-evolving field, and there's always more to discover and learn.

1. "Does Treatment of Gingivitis During Pregnancy Improve Pregnancy Outcomes? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis"(2021).