Periodontal Diseases and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: A Review of the Evidence and Implications for Clinical Practice (Report‪)‬

Introduction Periodontal diseases are a group of conditions that cause inflammation and destruction to the supporting structures of the teeth. These chronic oral infections are characterized by the presence of a biofilm matrix that adheres to the periodontal structures and serves as a reservoir for bacteria. Dental plaque biofilm is a complex structure of bacteria that is marked by the excretion of a protective and adhesive matrix. (1) Within this matrix are gram-negative anaerobic and microaerophilic bacteria that colonize on the tooth structures, initiate the inflammatory process, and can lead to bone loss and the migration of the junctional epithelium, resulting in periodontal pocketing and periodontal disease. This bacterial insult can result in destruction of the periodontal tissues which precipitates a systemic inflammatory and immune response. (2)