Evaluation of the incidence of preterm low birth weight in patients undergoing periodontal therapy.

Background: Preterm low birth weight was reported to be related to periodontal infections that might influence the fetus-placenta complex. The aim of this study was to provide periodontal treatment for pregnant women and to evaluate if this treatment can interfere with pregnancy duration and weight of the newborn.

Methods: The sample consisted of 450 pregnant women who were under prenatal care at a polyclinic in Três Corações, Brazil.