Is poor periodontal oral health in pregnant women a risk factor for preterm delivery and low birth weight?

Abstract

EVIDENCE-BASED ANSWER Maternal periodontitis is associated with increased risk of low birth weight (<2,500 g) (SOR: B, prospective cohort study). Maternal periodontitis may be associated with shorter gestation (SOR: B, conflicting prospective cohort and cross-sectional studies, with better quality evidence favoring an association). Treatment of periodontal disease in early pregnancy has not been shown to affect birth weight or preterm labor (SOR: C, underpowered RCT).