Research suggests that women who entered labour early were one and a half times more likely (45%) to have gum disease than women who experienced a perfect pregnancy (29%).
The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, also found that early birth rates were more common for women with untreated tooth decay or fillings.
Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, says the research highlights the impact that oral health can have on overall wellbeing.
Dr Carter says: “The health of our mouth can have a direct influence on many parts of our general health. This includes the chances of having a safer birth.
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