Birth and infant outcomes of poor oral health during
pregnancy
There is increasing evidence highlighting the potential impact
of poor maternal oral health on birth and infant outcomes
(Xiong et al. 2006, Silk et al. 2008, Polyzos et al. 2009).
Evidence suggests that periodontal infection may be associated
with adverse pregnancy outcomes. This suggestion is not
a new idea. In 1931, Galloway identified that focal infection
found in teeth, tonsils, sinuses and kidneys pose a risk to the
developing foetus (Galloway 1931). To show the impact on
humans, he studied the dental radiographs of 242 women
presenting for prenatal care and identified those that had a
dental infection (15%, n = 57). These women were then
recommended to undergo dental treatment. Of those who
were treated, none resulted in a miscarriage or stillbirth.
Galloway (1931) concluded that removal of a known focal
infection was more beneficial than allowing it to harbour
throughout pregnancy.