There is a growing body of knowledge that supports an
association between oral health and pregnancy outcomes.[1]
Changes in hormonal levels (estrogens and progesterone)
during pregnancy can lead to an inflammatory response
and increased permeability of blood vessels, thus causing
gingivitis and periodontitis.[2,3] Preterm delivery and low birth
weight are the most common causes for neonatal morbidity
and mortality.[4] The highest rates of low birth weight babies
are reported from Asia, and the incidence in India is quite
high at about 20%.[5] In 1996 Offenbacher et al. first reported
an association between periodontal disease and preterm