The relationship between maternal periodontitis and preterm low birth weight: A case-control study

The relationship between periodontal diseases in pregnancy and children born prematurely or with low birth weight has been increasingly investigated, showing positive and negative results, respectively.

To evaluate the association between Maternal Periodontitis and Preterm delivery or Low Birth Weight.

In this case-control study, 104 pregnant women without systemic disease or other risk factors for preterm labor were chosen. The control group (n = 52) had term labor (infants ≥37 weeks) and the case group (n = 52) had preterm labor (infants <37 weeks). Plaque index, bleeding index, and birth weight were measured.

The data of plaque index (cases 1.21±0.56; controls 0.63±0.31), bleeding index (cases, 2.08±0.62; controls, 1.52±0.61), birth weight (cases, 2.01±0.36; controls 2.87±0.32), and Probing Pocket Depth (PPD) ≥4mm and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) ≥3mm in at least 4 teeth (odds ratio 137.50, P value < 0.0001) revealed a statistically significant difference between the two groups P< 0.05).

A noticeable relationship between periodontal health and duration of pregnancy; periodontal disease could be a risk factor for preterm labor. Oral hygiene maintenance should be a part of prenatal care protocol.