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Is There an Association Between Periodontitis and Gestational Diabetes? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Ludovica Giancotti1, Sara Sorrenti2, Lorenzo Marini3
1Institute of Dental Clinic, A. Gemelli University Policlinic IRCCS, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy.
Dentistry Journal
|March 27, 2026
Summary
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is significantly associated with periodontitis (PD), a gum disease. Pregnant women with GDM show increased signs of periodontal inflammation, suggesting a link between hyperglycemia and oral health.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Periodontology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and periodontitis (PD) are chronic inflammatory conditions with shared pathways.
- Existing evidence on the GDM-PD association is inconsistent.
- This study systematically reviews and meta-analyzes the GDM-PD relationship.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between GDM and PD.
- To determine if GDM impacts key periodontal parameters.
- To inform clinical practice regarding prenatal care.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase) up to August 2025.
- Inclusion of observational studies comparing periodontal status in pregnant women with and without GDM.
- Assessment of probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP); meta-analysis using random-effects models.
Main Results:
- Fifteen studies with ~3800 participants were included.
- A significant association was found between GDM and PD (OR 2.10).
- GDM was linked to increased BOP and PPD, but not CAL or gingivitis.
Conclusions:
- GDM is significantly associated with periodontitis.
- Gestational hyperglycemia may exacerbate periodontal inflammation and early tissue changes.
- Periodontal screening in prenatal care could improve maternal health; further research on causality and therapy is warranted.
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