Maternal Chronic Periodontitis as a risk factor for preterm birth and low birth weight: A hospital-based case control study

Authors

  • Manisha Pathak BDS, MDS ( Periodontology), Associate Professor, Department of Dentistry, Saraswati Medical College, Unnao
  • Madhvika Patidar BDS, MDS Assistant Professor Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Government College of Dentistry Indore
  • John Kujur Reader, Department of Prosthodontics, Crown and Bridge, Implantology and maxillofacial Prosthesis, Hi tech dental college, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
  • Himanshu Sharma Professor, Department of pedodontics and preventive dentistry, College of dental science and hospital, Rau, Indore
  • Shilpi Tyagi Senior lecturer, ITS dental college, D-1202 Charms castle, Rajnagar Extension Ghaziabad 201017
  • Akanksha Singh Senior lecturer, ITS dental college Ghaziabad 201017

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48165/ajm.2025.8.01.8

Keywords:

Periodontitis, Preterm birth, Low birth weight, Pregnancy, Case control study, CPITN.

Abstract

Background: Preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW) are main causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Evidence suggests a potential link between maternal chronic periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Objectives: This hospital-based case-control study aimed to assess the association between maternal chronic periodontitis and the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in postpartum women. Methods: A total of 540 postpartum women were enrolled, comprising 270 cases (PTB and/or LBW) and 270 matched controls (term and normal birth weight). Demographic data and obstetric history were recorded. Periodontal status was assessed using the Clinical Attachment Loss (CAL) index, Gingival Index, and Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN). Results: No significant differences were observed between groups regarding age, gravidity, or educational status (p > 0.05). However, periodontal indicators were significantly worse among cases. The mean CAL score was higher in the case group (4.18 ± 1.05) than controls (3.8 ± 0.83; p = 0.002). Gingival inflammation and CPITN scores also showed significant differences (p < 0.001) Conclusion: Maternal chronic periodontitis is significantly associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. Early diagnosis and management of periodontal disease in pregnant women may play a role in improving perinatal outcomes.

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Published

2025-04-30

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025): Academia Journal of Medicine(Jan-Jun)

Section

Research Article

How to Cite

Maternal Chronic Periodontitis as a risk factor for preterm birth and low birth weight: A hospital-based case control study . (2025). Academia Journal of Medicine, 8(1), 37-41. https://doi.org/10.48165/ajm.2025.8.01.8