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Periodontal disease and preterm birth
Amanda L Horton1, Kim A Boggess
1Northshore University Health System, Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201-1718, USA. amandamarder@gmail.com
Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America
|February 29, 2012
Summary
Maternal periodontal disease, linked to inflammation, is associated with preterm birth. However, treating gum disease in pregnancy did not consistently reduce preterm birth rates, though oral health remains crucial.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Periodontology
- Neonatal Health
Background:
- Preterm birth is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality in the U.S.
- Clinical infection and inflammation are increasingly linked to preterm birth.
- Maternal periodontal disease, a source of systemic inflammation, has been associated with preterm birth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between maternal periodontal disease and preterm birth.
- To evaluate the efficacy of periodontal disease interventions during pregnancy on preterm birth rates.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing evidence on periodontal disease and preterm birth.
- Analysis of intervention trials for periodontal disease treatment in pregnant individuals.
Main Results:
- Maternal periodontal disease is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.
- Intervention trials for periodontal disease treatment during pregnancy have not consistently reduced preterm birth rates.
Conclusions:
- While treating periodontal disease in pregnancy may not consistently prevent preterm birth, maintaining good oral health is vital.
- Oral health maintenance should be supported as part of essential prenatal care.
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