A recent study of 1,000 women between six to 20 weeks pregnant shows that pregnant women not successfully treated for periodontal (gum) disease were three times more likely to give premature birth, 35 weeks or prior in gestation. Of the 1,000 women surveyed, 160 were diagnosed with the disease. Those who were treated for the disease by scaling and root planing were less likely to give birth pre-term.
Because women undergo hormonal changes during pregnancy, it may be advisable for these women to give advance attention to their oral health, the study concluded. For example, severe gum disease may cause an increase in labor-inducing chemicals, such as prostaglandin and tumor necrosis factor. Experts in the United Kingdom, however, are skeptical of these results, expressing the need for further study. Moreover, alcohol intake, smoking, bacterial infection and poor diet also factor into premature birth and should be considerations when studying women with periodontal disease.
-compiled by Fiza Hashmi
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