Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Maternal Periodontal Health
Erin A. Kierce*, Lori Rainchuso
Optimal maternal oral health is a critical component to the overall health of pregnant women and their babies. Untreated oral conditions can be a major risk factor for health complications in the developing fetus or newborn infant. However, oral health is often overlooked in the scope of comprehensive prenatal care. Maternal periodontal disease has been associated with preterm birth, the development of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, and the delivery of a low birth weight (LBW) infant, while the maternal oral bacteria transmitted to the newborn infant can also predispose the baby to the development of dental caries. This literature review will assess the relationship between maternal periodontal diseases on adverse birth outcomes as well as document the importance and safety of maintaining oral health care during pregnancy.
