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An Unknown Cause of Infertility: The Oral Microbiome

Gut Health and Microbiome

Presented by: Katie Lee, DDS

Original Publication Date: March 6, 2024

Take the Course This course is available for CE Credit as a "Members Only" benefit. Not a Member? CLICK HERE to learn more about AAOSH Membership.

Course Description:

Despite evolving family structures, the desire to have children persists among most adults. However, an increasing number face challenges in conceiving. Leading to a rising rate of infertility, now affecting 10% of the population.  50% of infertility cases are attributed to male factors. In infertility discussions, the impact of oral health is overlooked, specifically the role of bacteria like Porphyromonous gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, which can harm the reproductive system. This webinar will explore the connection between the oral microbiome and fertility, addressing necessary treatments and the safety of dental care during pregnancy.

Learning Objectives:

  • Recall the main causes of infertility at the knowledge level.
  • Analyze the impact of the oral microbiome on infertility, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term maternal health at the comprehension and application levels.
  • Evaluate the financial implications of gingival disease on pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes at the analysis level.
  • Apply strategies to identify and treat pathogens affecting fertility at the application level.
  • Evaluate best practices for dental treatment during pregnancy at the synthesis level.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Katie Lee is a dentist, speaker, author, and coach who lives in Aurora, Colorado. Dr. Lee graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2010 and was a partner in over 80 Pacific Dental Services-supported dental practices. Throughout the US, served as Clinical Partner overseeing 5 states. Currently, she consults for an implant technology company and provides implant education for dentists. Dr. Lee has two passions in her profession: dentistry itself and making other dentists successful. Her passion for the oral systemic health link comes from personal experience. Dr. Lee was involved in an ATV accident as a teenager, which left her without many teeth and rendered her jaw immobile. Dr. Lee experienced how oral health affects systemic health and the benefits of implants. Her first-hand journey in recovering from the effects of dental trauma led her to specialize her career on the mouth-body connection and dental implants. Dr. Lee searches for proven technologies that improve clinical outcomes and the patient experience and loves to educate her peers on those technologies. Dr. Lee authored a book entitled Saved By the Mouth to educate patients and clinicians on the importance of oral health. Dr. Lee has won many accolades, including Top 40 under 40 Dentists in America and International Woman of the Year in Dentistry. She has been featured on local Fox and NBC news stations discussing the importance of oral health.