A number of publications confirm the association between periodontitis and general health. It
is widely accepted that maternal periodontitis is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes,
such as preterm birth and preterm low birth weight (<2500 g). These risks increase further in
women who smoke. The aim of this study is to clarify the correlations between periodontitis,
smoking and adverse pregnancy outcomes and to emphasize the need for an interdisciplinary
approach among health professionals (e.g. gynecologists/obstetricians, family physicians,
dentists, periodontists and nurses) in order to reduce such risks. Pregnancy is an ideal time
for permanent smoking cessation. This condition provides an important “teachable moment”
to motivate smokers to change behavior that increases health risks for both fetus/infant and
mother.
