Evaluation of the Periodontal Parameters in Pregnant Women with Metabolic Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: With the adoption of modernized lifestyle, the prevalence of Metabolic syndrome (MeS) is increasing. Consequently, it becomes imperative to evaluate its association with other conditions such as periodontitis, especially in pregnant women.

Objectives: To evaluate the periodontal parameters of pregnant women with metabolic syndrome.

Methods: A total of 144 pregnant females aged 18-34 years with MeS participated in the study. Data was gathered through a comprehensive questionnaire that encompassed demographic characteristics like age, diet, medical history, and oral health behaviors. Subsequently, dental examinations were conducted to assess the Gingival Index, Plaque Index, Bleeding on probing, Probing depth (PD), and Clinical attachment loss (CAL). The patients were then classified into three categories: Mild, moderate, and severe periodontitis. Blood samples were also collected and analyzed for blood glucose, triglyceride, and HDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, the Systolic and Diastolic BP, pre-gestation waist circumference, and BMI were recorded to diagnose MeS. The relationship between number of MeS components and severity of periodontal disease was evaluated using chi-square test. For every test, a P value of less than 0.05 was deemed statistically significant (P <0.05).

Results: Majority of participants (33.3%) exhibited gingivitis, while 20.8% had severe periodontitis. However, no statistically significant association was observed between the level of periodontal conditions and positive factors for MeS (p>0.05).

Conclusions: It was found that all patients with MeS had some form of periodontal disease, with the highest proportion of participants presenting with gingivitis. The association between the severity of periodontal disease and the elevated presence of MeS components, especially in the setting of pregnancy, is still up for dispute, though.