Can a mother’s gum health influence her baby’s health?

A large scientific review analyzed 35 studies involving more than 2.5 million pregnant women and found an association between periodontal disease (gum disease) and a higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight babies.

Researchers believe that oral bacteria and inflammatory substances may travel through the bloodstream to the placenta, potentially contributing to these complications. Although the findings suggest a connection, the authors emphasize that more consistent studies are still needed to confirm a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

Even so, periodontal care during pregnancy may play an important role in both maternal and fetal health. Prevention, good oral hygiene, and regular dental care should be part of a healthier and more complete prenatal journey.

In this episode, Dr. Alexandre Ribeiro explores the growing body of scientific evidence linking oral health to brain health. Emerging research suggests that chronic gum disease (periodontitis) may play a role in systemic inflammation and could be associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Ribeiro discusses how periodontal bacteria and chronic oral inflammation may influence the body beyond the mouth, potentially affecting the brain over time. He also explains what current research shows, what remains uncertain, and why maintaining healthy gums may be an important part of protecting overall health.

With over 25 years of clinical experience and advanced training in periodontics and implant dentistry, Dr. Ribeiro brings a scientific and practical perspective to the oral–systemic connection.

If you care about your long-term health, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Inchingolo, A.M.; Inchingolo, A.D.; Piras, Oral Health and Cognitive Decline: A Systematic Review of the Periodontitis–Alzheimer’s Connection. Appl. Sci. 2025,

A brief overview of how periodontal disease may influence overall health, including its potential links to heart disease and other systemic conditions. Simple, science-based, and easy to understand.

Huang et al. Military Medical Research (2024) 11:74https://doi.org/10.1186/s40779-024-00583-y