By Richard Nagelberg, DDS & Kim Miller, RDH, BSDH, RDHMP
Source: Am J Obstet Gynecol 2009 May;200(5):497.e1-8
Title: Periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes: is there an association?
Authors: Srinivas SK, Sammel MD, Stamilio DM, Clothier B, Jeffcoat MK, Parry S, Macones GA, Elovitz MA, Metlay J
Overview:
This journal article evaluated a variety of adverse pregnancy events including; preterm birth, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction or perinatal death in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease.
Summary of research:
• 311 pregnant women with perio disease and 475 pregnant women without perio disease, between 6 and 20 weeks' gestation enrolled in the study.
• Perio disease defined as attachment loss > or = to 3mm on 3 or more teeth.
Results and conclusions:
• There was no association between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy events in this study.
• Despite the body of literature suggesting an association between perio disease and adverse pregnancy events, this large prospective study failed to demonstrate an association.
Key take-aways:
At this point in time, the potential association between perio disease and adverse pregnancy events is not settled either way. Many well-designed studies demonstrated an association and others including this study did not. As dental practitioners, among our responsibilities, is keeping up with research. Despite the fact that the perio/pregnancy question is still under investigation and a consensus does not presently exist in the medical and dental professions, treating every patient with any level of periodontal disease is one of our primary responsibilities. Improving oral health and reducing the total inflammatory burden in the body is a worthwhile endpoint.
