Academics:
Faculty, USC School of Dentistry
Graduate, USC School of Dentistry
Special Qualifications:
Fellow,
Academy of General Dentistry
Fellow, International College of
Cranio- Mandibular Orthopaedics
Fellow, International Academy of
Mini Dental Implants
Fellow, International Congress of
Oral Implantologists
Fellow, Institute for Advanced
Laser Dentistry
Conscious Sedation Permit,
Dental Board of California
Member:
Member, American Dental Association
Member, California Dental Association
Associate Member, American
Academy of Periodontology
Associate Member, Western Society
Academy of Periodontology
Member, American Academy of
Dental Sleep Medicine
Member, American Academy of
Implant Dentistry
Member, American Dental Society
of Anesthesiology
Member, American Academy of
Pain Management
Member, American Academy of
Sleep Medicine
Member, Academy of Microscope
Enhanced Dentistry
Member, Special Care Dentistry
Association
Lectures & Presentations:
San Gabriel Valley Dental Society
San Gabriel Valley Dental
Assistants Society
San Fernando Valley Dental Society
Western Dental Society
Indian Dental Society
Chinese Dental Society
Punjabi Dental Society
Academy for Excellence in Dentistry
University of Texas, Department
of Periodontics
Community Service:
SMILE TALK, KRLA
Radio Talk Show Host, KDAR
KSPA
Columnist, Around Alhambra
Columnist, Cascades
Operation Gratitude
Honors & Recognition:
Doctor of Divinity, Chinese for
Christ Theological Seminary
Lifetime Member, ADA, CDA
USC Dentistry Associates, Dean’s
Member
Recognition for Outstanding Service,
USC School of Dentistry
Articles
John C. Chao, D.D.S., F.A.G.D
Anxiety Management,
Behavior Science,
Faculty, USC School of Dentistry
Gum Treatment Reduces Risk Of Preterm and Low-Weight Baby
When "pregnancy gingivitis" is treated, risk for a preterm and low-weight baby is reduced by 68%, according to a recent study published in the November, 2005, issue of the Journal of Periodontology. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum infection that leads to tooth loss in later stages (periodontitis). Gingivitis that develops because of hormonal changes during gestation is called pregnancy gingivitis. This study suggests that gingivitis is an independent risk factor for preterm and low weight babies. Therapeutic intervention through teeth cleaning and dental hygiene instruction reduces preterm birth and low-weight infant rates significantly.
This study is consistent with two other well-known studies which reported on reduced incidences of preterm and low weight birth rates when more advanced forms of gum disease were treated during pregnancy. The reduction in risk ranged from 71% to 84%.
Based on these studies it recommended that if periodontal infection is diagnosed at any time during pregnancy, treatment should be started as soon as possible to reduce risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Those contemplating becoming pregnant should also be evaluated for gum disease and dental problems prior to becoming pregnant.
These studies are more evidence that oral health is intricately interconnected with general health. Previous studies suggest that heart and respiratory disorders are associated with gum infection.
That your great smile gives the impression of vitality and health is based on good science. So brush at least twice a day and see your dentist regularly.
