Yonsei Med J.  2008 Apr;49(2):200-203. 10.3349/ymj.2008.49.2.200.

Periodontitis as a Risk Factor for Preterm Low Birth Weight

• Marakoglu
• Gursoy UK
• Marakoglu
• Cakmak H
• Ataoglu T

• KMID: 1084490
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2008.49.2.200

Abstract

PURPOSE
There is growing evidence showing that a number of complex human diseases are caused or are at least influenced by periodontal diseases. Such diseases include cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis. The aim of study was to evaluate periodontal diseases as a risk factor for a preterm low birth weight. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 48 mothers, 20 of who had a preterm low birth weight delivery, were examined in the Clinics of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, Cumhuriyet University. The periodontal exams consisted of a full mouth pocket depth, a Loe and Sillness Gingival index score measurements, and a panoramic radiograph analysis. Information on any other factors that may cause a preterm low birth weight was obtained from the family physician. RESULTS: The study results indicated that periodontitis (OR: 3.6 95% CI: 1.06-12.18) together with bacterial vaginosis (OR: 11.57 95% CI: 1.26-105.7) were independent risk factors of a preterm low birth weight. According to the data obtained from this study, the paternal age, tobacco use and the mothers' height were not significant risk factors for a preterm low birth weight. CONCLUSION: Within the limits of this study, it is concluded that a poor periodontal health status of the mother may be a potential risk factor for a preterm low birth weight.

Keyword

Preterm low birth weight; maternal periodontal health

MeSH Terms

Body Height
Female
Humans
*Infant, Low Birth Weight
Infant, Newborn
Infant, Premature
Odds Ratio
Periodontitis/etiology/*physiopathology
Pregnancy
*Premature Birth
Risk Factors
Smoking/adverse effects
Vaginosis, Bacterial/complications/physiopathology