Preterm birth and periodontitis

Bacterial plaque is primary etiologic agent in periodontal diseases. It is well known that host related factors such as genetic, systemic diseases affect the periodontium, especially the gingiva and alveolar bone. Today, the effect of periodontal disease on systemic health has been proven by many studies. Many prominent changes occur in the innate and adaptive immune system with pregnancy. Preterm birth, which is the most important known pregnancy complication today, is a serious problem for developing countries. The most important step in managing preterm birth is to know the risk factors and treatment strategies. One of the factors that may affect the healthy maintenance of the fetal-maternal unit is maternal periodontitis. The new studies aim to explore the mechanisms by which periodontitis affects the etiology of preterm birth. In this chapter, the role of periodontal disease in preterm birth, the relationship between maternal periodontal disease and preterm birth, and current information on the management of the process have been criticized. © 2023 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.