Eruption Chronology in Children: A Cross-sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Human Growth and Development
• Public Health

Background:

• Establishing normative data for primary tooth eruption is crucial for early identification of developmental issues.
• Previous studies have not adequately addressed eruption patterns in the specific population of Bhopal city, India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a reference standard for primary tooth eruption timing in infants and preschool children in Bhopal.
• To investigate the influence of various factors on primary dentition eruption.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 4-36 month-old children from Bhopal.
• Oral examinations conducted by a single examiner using standardized methods.
• Data collection included anthropometric measurements (height, weight, birth weight) and parental questionnaires on feeding habits and socioeconomic status.

Main Results:

• Significant correlations were found between tooth eruption timing and birth weight, feeding habits, socioeconomic status, and body mass index (BMI).
• The study observed a delay in primary tooth eruption among Indian children compared to international standards.

Conclusions:

• Birth weight, feeding practices, socioeconomic factors, and BMI are significant determinants of primary tooth eruption in Indian children.
• The findings suggest a need to re-evaluate existing eruption norms for Indian children, highlighting potential delays.