Relationship between periodontal diseases and preterm birth: recent epidemiological and biological data

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Periodontology
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth rates remain stagnant in developed nations despite public health initiatives.
• Known risk factors like ethnicity, age, tobacco, and infection account for only half of preterm birth cases.
• Periodontal diseases are prevalent inflammatory oral infections negatively impacting general health and potentially pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review epidemiological, biological, and interventional studies examining the association between periodontal diseases and preterm birth.
• To synthesize current evidence on the link between maternal oral health and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature.
• Analysis of epidemiological data on periodontal disease prevalence and preterm birth rates.
• Evaluation of biological mechanisms potentially linking oral infections to preterm birth.
• Assessment of interventional studies on periodontal treatment during pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Data on the link between periodontal diseases and preterm birth are currently contradictory.
• Periodontal diseases are associated with other systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
• Further research is needed to clarify the causal relationship and effective interventions.

Conclusions:

• Physicians and obstetricians should identify pregnant women at risk for preterm birth.
• Referral to dentists for periodontal examination and treatment is recommended to mitigate risks.
• Addressing periodontal health may be a viable strategy to reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes.