Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Associated with Periodontal Disease: A Review and Update

Abstract

Background: Periodontal diseases are considered a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. Periodontal bacteria originating in the gingival biofilm directly affect the feto-placental unit subsequent to bacteremia and inflammatory mediators secreted by the subgingival inflammatory site are carried to the feto-placental unit, where they then cause an inflammatory response are two possible mechanisms involve. The role of dentists is important to promote good oral hygiene in expecting mothers during routine prenatal visits to reduce chances of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Keywords: low birth weight, periodontitis, preterm birth, pregnancy.