[Periodontal diseases and preterm birth: a pilot study]

Abstract

The aim of this work is to determine periodontal disease's prevalence in preterm delivery (before 37 weeks of gestation) and find a significant association between preterm birth and periodontal diseases. Periodontal status was determined. Status and severity were noted and correlated to term of delivery. Fifty-two patients were included in the study. Periodontal disease's prevalence was 33% for gingivitis and 44% for periodontitis. No significant correlation was found (P=0.41). Periodontal disease's prevalence is agreed with literature review. The different opinion are largely discussed. Methodological harmonization of periodontal definitions is needed to increase study's power.