If you are planning for a little bundle of joy soon, then you might be focused on eating right, exercising, and making healthy lifestyle choices. However, your dentist in Oak Park, IL, says that you can’t overlook your gum health if you want to conceive sooner rather than later.
Research suggests that untreated gum disease may cause systemic inflammation that could be linked to infertility. Luckily, treating the disease with your dentist in Oak Park, IL, may support your overall wellness, including your reproductive health. Call Town and Country Dental at (708) 383-0330 to book a visit with Thomas W. Wegner, D.D.S., today!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, periodontal disease, and periodontitis are all terms dentists use to describe a chronic infection of the gums and supporting tissues. Common symptoms include:
- Gum tenderness
- Increased tooth sensitivity around the gumline
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Permanent bone and tooth loss
Your dentist in Oak Park, IL, says that early diagnosis and treatment are key to controlling gum disease, inflammation, and more serious health concerns.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Infertility
The common theme between gum disease and infertility is chronic inflammation. Researchers have found that people with infertility often have higher rates of periodontal disease compared to those without fertility issues. This suggests that untreated gum disease may:
- Disrupt hormones
- Affect egg and sperm quality
- Interfere with conception
This is why your dentist in Oak Park, IL, may recommend reducing inflammation as part of a comprehensive reproductive health plan.
Effects on Male Fertility
Research shows a strong connection between gum disease and male reproductive health.
Poor Sperm Health
Men with periodontal disease may show signs of:
- Reduced sperm motility
- Abnormal sperm shape
- Increased sperm DNA fragmentation
Subsequently, your dentist in Oak Park, IL, may suggest periodontal care as part of a comprehensive and proactive approach to male reproductive health.
Effects on Female Fertility
The connection between oral health and female fertility isn’t as strong, but evidence continues to grow.
Struggling to Get Pregnant
Some studies suggest that women with gum disease may struggle to conceive, often taking longer to conceive compared to women without uncontrolled gum disease. The science points to chronic inflammation that may affect hormone levels and reproductive function.
Is Gum Disease a Direct Cause of Infertility?
No, untreated gum disease is not proven to directly cause infertility. However, the research proves an undeniable connection, if not causation. This means:
- Gum disease may contribute to fertility challenges
- It may also reflect overall health conditions that require attention
Your dentist in Oak Park, IL, can help control gum disease, which allows your body to focus on other things, like healthy conception.
When Should You See Your Dentist in Oak Park, IL?
If you are planning to conceive, now is the ideal time to prioritize your oral health. However, you don’t need to plan a family to prioritize your gum health. Regardless of your future goals, you should visit your dentist in Oak Park, IL, if you notice:
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Gums that bleed easily
- Pesky bad breath that smells “rotten”
- Gum swelling
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
Schedule Prenatal Dental Care at Town & Country Dental of Oak Park, IL
Are you planning a family soon, but you have untreated gum disease? Now’s the perfect time to get treatment with Thomas W. Wegner, D.D.S. Click here to request a prenatal dental checkup with your dentist in Oak Park, IL, or call (708) 383-0330 to begin your journey toward better health and improved fertility at Town and Country Dental.