Prospective and case-control studies suggest a positive influence of non-surgical periodontal therapy on reducing low birth weight.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not studied
• D. Inconclusive

Answer: (A)

The statement is supported by observational research. Prospective cohort and case-control studies have reported that non-surgical periodontal therapy—such as scaling and root planing to reduce periodontal infection—was associated with lower rates of low birth weight compared with no treatment or poorer periodontal health. The idea is that treating periodontal disease lowers local and systemic inflammation and bacterial load, which are thought to influence placental function and fetal growth. While these designs show association and cannot prove causation, the consistency of findings across several studies suggests a beneficial influence. Therefore, this option best fits the evidence and is considered true.