The relationship between maternal oral health parameters, inflammatory blood markers, and the evaluation of their effects on preterm low birth weight.

Abstract

Background: Preterm birth significantly elevates neonatal mortality and morbidity, often resulting in developmental challenges and severe health consequences. Risk factor identification is essential for preventative measures. This research aimed to assess maternal oral health's effects on inflammatory blood markers and determine a possible relationship with preterm low birth weight (PLBW).

Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional and case-control design. A randomized cohort of fifty women who delivered low-birth-weight infants was compared to a matched control group of fifty women who delivered full-term infants. Oral health was evaluated using the DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth), DMFS (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Surfaces), Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), Pocket Depth (PD), and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL). Patient history and relevant hematological data were retrieved from medical records. Logistic regression modeling was conducted on variables exhibiting statistical significance (p < 0.05) following group comparisons.

Results: The case group showed significantly higher oral health indices than the control group, with median DMFT scores of 7.14 vs. 4.74 (p = 0.013), DMFS scores of 20.58 vs. 12.08 (p = 0.026), PI values of 1.96 vs. 1.18, GI values of 2.03 vs. 1.20, and PD values of 2.61 mm vs. 2.00 mm (all p < 0.001). However, none of these parameters (DMFT, DMFS, PI, GI, or PD) were significant predictors of PLBW (p > 0.05). Weak positive correlations were observed between PI, GI, PD, and leukocyte counts (r = 0.240, p = 0.016; r = 0.248, p = 0.013; and r = 0.220, p = 0.028, respectively).

Conclusions: Considering the study's limitations, the principal results suggest a statistically significant difference in oral health, with women delivering low birth weight infants exhibiting poorer outcomes than control groups. Analysis of secondary outcomes indicates that oral health is not an independent predictor of preterm birth; instead, its contribution may be indirect and through systemic inflammation. Effective collaboration between obstetricians and dentists is crucial for the early detection and management of oral health issues in pregnant patients. Prioritizing the creation of public health policies designed to reduce the incidence of preterm births and strengthen maternal-fetal well-being is essential.

Clinical trial number: Not applicable.