Pregnancy Outcomes and Maternal Periodontal Diseases: The Unexplored Connection

In the early 20th century, numerous in-vitro studies, animal studies, epidemiological studies, and human trials have attempted to demonstrate the interrelationship between pregnancy outcomes and maternal periodontal disease. This review aims to shed light on the unexplored connections between pregnancy outcomes and maternal periodontal diseases. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Embase. Our research focuses on the role of epigenetics, maternal vitamin D status, stress levels, genetic factors, innate immunity, pattern recognition receptors, and any potential paternal influence, and their possible connections to maternal periodontal disease. Although the precise etiologies and pathogenic mechanisms of the adverse pregnancy outcomes remain obscure, substantial affirmation of the inter-relationship between maternal periodontal diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes may prove to be of public health relevance as periodontitis can certainly be prevented and treated. Maternal periodontal disease may augment the probability of jeopardizing maternal health causing adverse effects on the pregnancy and neonatal morbidity. Hence, emphasis should be placed on an early diagnosis and management of periodontal diseases. Routine oral health evaluation during prenatal care should be encouraged to combat complications. Ensuing endeavors should be undertaken to help find plausible mechanisms keeping in view the future research domains and new pathways.