Does the systemic inflammation caused by periodontal disease lead to problems with conception?

The bacteria found in periodontal disease not only affect the mouth, but can cause inflammation throughout the body. Both Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia showed to increase the risk of unsuccessful conception in women. In men, periodontal disease reduced sperm quality. Changes were

noted in sperm motility, morphology, and density. Hormonal therapy and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are both used to treat infertility in women. The medications used in both options showed to cause gingival inflammation and bleeding. In IVF, this tissue response could negatively impact the outcome of treatment, by decreasing the number of mature follicles retrieved or the number of embryos transferred. As dental professionals, we should encourage more frequent re-care visits for both partners as it could increase a couples chance of conceiving. We can also teach patients about the side effects of the common medications used for therapy. By understanding this condition we will be able to give our patients the proper information and provide them the tools to take care of their oral health as well. It will be beneficial to the patient to increase inter-professional communications between us and their specialists. The consequences of periodontal disease on systemic conditions has been documented extensively. Further research needs to be conducted to fully understand and solidify the link between these two conditions.

Infertility is the in inability to conceive after 12 months or more of trying

The CDC reports that 7.3 million women have received infertility services in the US

Society places the burden of infertility on the shoulders of women, but men account for 40-50% of all infertility cases

Common drugs used for infertility treatment are clomiphene citrate, human menopausal gonadotropin, and follicle stimulating hormone

Infertility and Inflammation: The Periodontal Disease Connection

Arika Andrasko, Emily Brockette, and Sofia Moreno Etcheverry

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