Pearly Whites

A nice white smile is one reason for a visit to the dentist. But you might also want to visit one before you become pregnant.

It's because that visit might keep you from having a premature baby.

Gum disease has been linked to an increase risk of heart problems and other diseases. But now it looks like that same issue might also increase a pregnant woman's chances of having an early birth.

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania looked at women who were between 6 and 20 weeks pregnant and focused in on the health of their teeth and gums. All of the women had some amount of gum disease and were treated. One third of the treatments were successful. Those whose treatment weren't successful also ended up being significantly more likely to give birth before 35 weeks. And since having a preemie can also mean more health problems for the baby, this study, according to the researchers involved, highlights a connection between mom's gum disease and an unborn babies health.

Other experts say the connection between the two hasn't been firmly established yet and that further research is needed. In the meanwhile, getting a dental checkup early in the pregnancy still might be one key to having a healthy child.