Gum disease in pregnancy may cause preterm births

However, successful treatment for gum disease can significantly cut back the risk of would-be-mothers giving preterm births, according to the study.

Details of the study
A research team from the University of Pennsylvania enrolled 1000 pregnant women between six and 20 weeks gestation period to come up with this finding.

All these women had symptoms of gum disease at the beginning of the study.

Of all, 160 women were diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease while the remaining women had comparatively good levels of oral health.

Periodontal (gum) disease affects the periodontium--tissues that surround and support the teeth. The condition can lead to subsequent loss of teeth, if left untreated.

Results of the study
The researchers found those who were not treated for the condition had a threefold increased chance of giving birth before 35 weeks.

On the other hand, those pregnant women who underwent the treatment for gum disease successfully were significantly less likely to give birth before 35 weeks.

The findings of the study suggest that pregnant women should keep a high standard of oral hygiene. They should also visit their dentist on a regular basis.

Previous studies have shown that severe gum infections trigger the production of prostaglandin and tumor necrosis factor, chemicals which are known to induce labor pain, thus risking preterm birth.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said, "This paper adds to the growing evidence around links between gum disease and pre-term babies.

"It is further strong evidence that pregnant women should take care of their periodontal health and receive appropriate treatment during their pregnancy to reduce as far as possible their chance of a pre-term birth."

The study was presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Dental Research in Washington last week.

Findings ‘controversial’
Critics however warned that the finding was “controversial” therefore more research is needed to confirm the results.

Professor Iain Chapple, from Birmingham Dental School said that the results “could reflect behavioral differences in the successfully treated group versus the unsuccessfully treated group" such as "poorer diets, smoking status, alcohol intake and many other issues.”

Some other experts echoed similar concerns saying that many factors could cause preterm births. And results of the present study are just a clue to what may cause preterm births.

However, they advised pregnant women should take proper care of their teeth and gums because due to hormonal changes their oral health may require closer attention.