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Periodontitis: a potential risk factor for spontaneous preterm birth.
1Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry (Jamesburg, N.J. : 1995)
|March 3, 2009
Summary
Maternal periodontal infections may increase the risk of spontaneous preterm birth (SPB). Poor periodontal status in mothers is linked to SPB, suggesting a potential health risk comparable to smoking during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Periodontology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Maternal infections during pregnancy are linked to adverse outcomes like preterm birth.
- Spontaneous preterm birth (SPB) is often associated with low birth weights.
- The impact of periodontal infections on pregnancy outcomes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if periodontal infections can negatively affect pregnancy.
- To investigate the mechanisms by which periodontal infections might influence pregnancy, including bacterial dissemination or hormonal changes.
- To examine the relationship between maternal periodontal status and SPB.
Main Methods:
- Independent case-control studies were conducted in human subjects.
- Periodontal status was assessed in mothers experiencing SPB and compared to controls with normal-term deliveries.
- Analysis focused on the correlation between periodontal health and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Results:
- Case-control studies indicated poorer periodontal status in mothers with SPB compared to controls.
- Findings suggest a potential link between periodontal infection and spontaneous preterm birth.
- Periodontal disease may pose significant risks to both mother and fetus.
Conclusions:
- Periodontal infections are a potential risk factor for spontaneous preterm birth.
- Further research is necessary to confirm and elucidate the relationship between periodontal disease and SPB.
- Periodontal disease may be as detrimental as smoking or alcohol abuse during pregnancy.
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