Clinical parameters and aMMP-8-concentrations in gingival crevicular fluid in pregnancy gingivitis.

BACKGROUND During pregnancy hormonal changes may increase the risk for developing gingivitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the signs of gingival inflammation and the enzyme activity of matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) in the gingival crevicular fluid of pregnant women. METHODS After approval by the ethics commission, a total of 40 volunteers participated in the study; group 1 (n = 20, age: 32 +/- 4 years) with pregnant women, and group 2 (n = 20, age: 30 +/- 10 years) with age-matched non-pregnant women as controls. After obtaining anamnestic data, the dental examination included assessment of oral hygiene, gingival inflammation, probing pocket depth, and recession. Gingival cre…