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The association between periodontitis and pre-term birth and/or low birth weight: a literature review

C S Sitholimela1, L S Shangase

  • 1Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, School of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.

SADJ : Journal of the South African Dental Association = Tydskrif Van Die Suid-Afrikaanse Tandheelkundige Vereniging
|August 27, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Maternal infections can lead to preterm birth and low birth weight. This review explores the link between periodontitis, a dental infection, and adverse pregnancy outcomes like PTLBW.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Periodontology
  • Reproductive Health

Background:

  • Infections during pregnancy are linked to adverse outcomes, including preterm birth and/or low birth weight (PTLBW).
  • Genito-urinary infections are known contributors to PTLBW.
  • Elevated amniotic fluid inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor alpha and prostaglandin E2) suggest infections beyond the genito-urinary tract may cause PTLBW.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature on the association between periodontitis and PTLBW.
  • To investigate the potential role of periodontitis as a non-genito-urinary source of infection contributing to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating periodontitis and pregnancy outcomes.
  • Analysis of evidence linking maternal infections, inflammation, and PTLBW.

Main Results:

  • Studies indicate a potential association between periodontitis and PTLBW.
  • Inflammatory mediators in amniotic fluid suggest systemic effects of localized infections.

Conclusions:

  • Periodontitis may be an independent risk factor for PTLBW.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking periodontitis to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

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