Abstract
A number of publications confirm the association between periodontitis and general health. It is widely accepted that maternal periodontitis is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and preterm low birth weight (<2500 g). These risks increase further in women who smoke. The aim of this study is to clarify the correlations between periodontitis, smoking and adverse pregnancy outcomes and to emphasize the need for an interdisciplinary approach among health professionals (e.g. gynecologists/obstetricians, family physicians, dentists, periodontists and nurses) in order to reduce such risks. Pregnancy is an ideal time for permanent smoking cessation. This condition provides an important 'teachable moment' to motivate smokers to change behavior that increases health risks for both fetus/infant and mother.
Highlights
Periodontal disease/periodontitis is chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the destruction of connective tissue attachment and alveolar bone that might eventually lead to teeth loss [1]
Though smoking cessation is among the most widely investigated areas in general health, relatively few studies have focused on interventions that combine health education and pharmacotherapy during pregnancy
The aim of this short review is to present periodontitis as a risk factor for both fetus and mother; it is a significant dental problem that is potentiated in smokers during pregnancy
Summary
A number of publications confirm the association between periodontitis and general health. It is widely accepted that maternal periodontitis is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and preterm low birth weight (
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