January 2015 - Dr. Richard S. Tutin's Blog

January 21, 2015

Dental Health “Very Important” During Pregnancy.

In a Q&A-style article, the Springfield (MA) Republican (12/18, Shebar) reports, “It is very important to take care of your teeth and gums while pregnant, not just for you, but for your baby’s health as well.” A study published in JADA “found that pregnant women with chronic gum disease were four to seven times more likely to deliver prematurely (before gestational week 37) and underweight babies than mothers with healthy gums.” The article notes that oral health is important even before pregnancy, and stresses that “it is important to have regular check-ups and cleaning” and to have any unresolved dental issues taken care of prior to pregnancy when possible.” Routine dental care such as check-up and cleaning can (and should) be performed during the second trimester,” the Springfield Republican adds.

January 10, 2015

WSJournal: Most People Should Visit Dentist Twice Per Year.

The Wall Street Journal (12/30, Chen, Subscription Publication) considers the frequency with which people should visit the dentist. Citing Dr. Edmond R. Hewlett, a professor of dentistry at the University of California, Los Angeles, the Journal reports that while a small number of people can get away with less than the recommended twice-per-year dental visits, others will in fact need to visit the dentist more than two times per year. Dr. Hewlett said that the recommendation was envisioned with an average person in mind, meaning middle-aged people who don’t smoke and who brush their teeth twice per day.