Essential Dental Treatment (EDT) in Pregnant Women during the Second Trimester Is Not Associated with an Increased Risk of Serious Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes or Medical Events

Article Title and Bibliographic Information: Examining the safety of dental treatment in pregnant women. Michalowicz BS, DiAngelis AJ, Novak MJ, Buchanan W, Papapanou PN, Mitchell DA, et al. J Am Dent Assoc 2008;139(6):685-95. Reviewer: Martha E. Nunn, DDS, Phd. Purpose/Question: To evaluate safety outcomes from a trial in which pregnant women with periodontitis received scaling and root planning and other dental treatments. Source of Funding: This study uses data from the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy Trial (OPT) that was supported by government funding from NIH/NIDCR grant U01DE014338. Type of Study/Design: Cohort study that uses data from the OPT, a multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial, to evaluate the effect of periodontal therapy on preterm birth. Level of Evidence: Level 2: Limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence. Strength of Recommendation Grade: Grade B: Inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence.