Periodontal disease and perinatal outcomes

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Periodontology
• Public Health

Background:

• Periodontal disease (PD) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
• Emerging evidence suggests potential links between maternal oral health and pregnancy complications.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for improving maternal and infant outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze existing research on the association between periodontal disease (PD) and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
• To quantify the strength of these associations using data from studies published between 1998 and 2010.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, LILACS, and the Cochrane Register.
• Included were 125 randomized, case-control, and matched-cohort studies focusing on pregnancy and postpartum specifics in women with PD.
• A meta-analysis was performed on data from 992 births, utilizing an oral inflammation score (OIS) derived from maternal PD parameters.

Main Results:

• Women with preeclampsia and preterm birth exhibited poorer periodontal parameters.
• Severe periodontitis in mothers was negatively correlated with infant birth weight and C-reactive protein levels.
• Factors such as tobacco use, bacterial vaginosis, and clinical attachment level were associated with increased rates of preeclampsia and prematurity.

Conclusions:

• Maternal periodontal disease demonstrates a significant association with preeclampsia and preterm birth.
• The oral inflammation score (OIS) remained a significant predictor of preterm birth even after adjusting for confounders.
• These findings underscore the importance of addressing maternal oral health to mitigate risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes.