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Periodontal disease and pregnancy outcomes: state-of-the-science
Xu Xiong1, Pierre Buekens, Sotirios Vastardis
1Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey
|August 21, 2007
Summary
Periodontal disease may increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. While some studies suggest a link, more rigorous research is needed to confirm this association and guide treatment recommendations during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Obstetrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Periodontal disease is a common oral condition.
- Adverse pregnancy outcomes pose significant health risks to mothers and infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze existing evidence on the relationship between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- To assess the potential impact of periodontal treatment on pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies published up to December 2006.
- Meta-analysis of clinical trials to pool effect sizes.
- Inclusion of case-control, cohort, and controlled trial studies.
Main Results:
- Twenty-nine of 44 studies suggested an association between periodontal disease and increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Meta-analysis indicated oral prophylaxis and periodontal treatment may reduce preterm low birth weight (RR: 0.53).
- No significant reduction was found for preterm birth or low birth weight rates.
Conclusions:
- Periodontal disease may be associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Insufficient evidence currently supports routine periodontal treatment during pregnancy for improving outcomes.
- More methodologically rigorous studies with standardized definitions are required.
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