The role of maternal periodontitis as a potential maternal-fetal stressor that has detrimental effects on the pregnancy outcome is a relatively new field of investigation. Preliminary study findings have built a strong rationale for conducting prospective studies measuring attributable risk, as well as clinical trials to test hypothesis that treating periodontal disease reduces risk.

MOTOR, The Maternal Oral Therapy to Reduce Obstetric Risk Study is a multi-center, randomized, minimal treatment-controlled, clinical trial Sponsored by the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR).

The primary goals of the study are:

• 1) To determine the effects of maternal periodontal treatments during the second trimester on the rate of preterm birth at <35 weeks gestational age.
• 2) Determine the effects of maternal periodontal treatments during the second trimester on mean birth weight adjusting for gestational age.
• 3) Collect and archive biological samples during the conduct of the trial to enable future studies regarding mechanisms of infections pathogens.

A total of 1800 pregnant moms with periodontal disease will be randomized at 3 clinical sites to one of two treatment arms over a 42 month period. Treatment groups include localized periodontal therapy of scaling and root planning with subgingival polishing prior to 23(6) weeks gestation, or, receiving the same local periodontal therapy immediately following delivery.