Treatment reduces early births

The findings, which were publicised at the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Dental Research in Washington, followed over 1,000 pregnant women between six and 20 weeks gestation.

The study monitored 160 participants diagnosed with periodontal disease and compared them to 872 pregnant women who had good levels of oral health.

The results showed subjects who were successfully treated for their periodontal disease had significantly lower incidence of preterm birth less than 35 weeks gestation.

Chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Nigel Carter believes this paper adds to the growing evidence around links between gum disease and pre-term babies. He commented, ‘Together with a paper presented at last year’s IADR in Miami this proves a positive link between successful treatment of the gum disease and reducing the likelihood of a pre-term birth. It is further strong evidence 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.’