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Some people believe that periodontitis - inlammation of the gums - can cause premature labor. But a study shows there's no real evidence for this. Gum disease known as periodontitis - that's when the dentist tells you your teeth are fine but your gums need to come out - is no laughing matter. It can be associated with bad breath and loosening of the teeth. Some people also believe that the chronic inflammation in periodontitis damages other parts of the body and causes preterm labor. But the evidence for this in humans is controversial. And a recent trial in 800 women suggests going after periodontitis doesn't prevent early labour. Since you can have gum disease without knowing it, the women had the spaces between their teeth and gums probed and then randomly allocated to aggressive de-scaling of their roots and teeth and monthly tooth polishing or just dental check ups. There was no reduction in preterm delivery although there was just a hint that late miscarriages and stillbirths prior to 32 weeks might have been lessened. Every pregnant woman should have healthy teeth because it makes a difference to the baby's dental health but not it seems, to whether he or she will be premature.
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