What is that?

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of the gums caused by a disrupted biofilm – a layer of bacteria on the teeth. Pathogenic mechanisms of bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis cause inflammation and can attack the gums and jawbone. If left untreated, this not only leads to bleeding gums and tooth loss, but also affects your overall health.

Why is it important?

When you're pregnant, your hormone levels change. Your gums become more sensitive, more prone to inflammation, and bleed more easily – dentists call this pregnancy gingivitis. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis.

Why is this problematic? Inflammatory messengers and bacteria can reach the placenta via the bloodstream. Research shows that this can be associated with an increased risk of premature birth and lower birth weight.

Science explained briefly

Researchers discovered that bacteria such as P. gingivalis release inflammatory molecules (for example, prostaglandins). These can trigger labor in the body—far too early. According to a study by Offenbacher et al. (1996), women with severe periodontitis had up to a seven times higher risk of premature birth.

Important: Periodontitis doesn't just affect the mouth – it can have systemic consequences. This is precisely where PerioTrap's research comes in: The patented PerioTrap® technology specifically blocks the harmful properties of certain bacteria without destroying the beneficial ones in the mouth.

What can you do?

• Have your gums checked – ideally before or at the latest at the beginning of your pregnancy.
• Thorough oral hygiene: brush your teeth twice a day, use dental floss or interdental brushes.
• Regularly undergo professional dental cleaning (PZR) to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth.
• Use gentle products: Toothpastes with microbiome protection, such as those from PerioTrap, help to block "bad" bacteria and maintain balance in the mouth.
• Pay attention to warning signs: bleeding gums, bad breath or swelling are a clear sign – then you should go to the dentist immediately.

In summary

• Periodontitis can increase the risk of premature birth.
• Healthy gums protect not only your teeth, but also your baby.
• PerioTrap products support a healthy microbiome and help control harmful bacteria.

Did you know?

Approximately every second pregnant woman develops gingivitis – but few know that this can increase the risk of premature birth.

Sources

• Offenbacher S. et al. – Periodontal infection as a possible risk factor for preterm low birth weight (1996).
• Lopez NJ et al. – Periodontal therapy reduces preterm low birth weight (2002).
• German Society for Periodontology (DG PARO) – Guidelines on Periodontitis & Pregnancy.