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Developmental defects of enamel in children born preterm
Elinor Halperson1, Salome Shafir1, Avia Fux-Noy1
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Frontiers in Pediatrics
|October 31, 2022
Summary
Children born preterm (PT) have significantly higher rates of developmental defects of enamel (DDE) compared to full-term (FT) infants. Neonatal morbidities like respiratory distress and ventilation are key risk factors for DDE in PT children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Neonatology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Developmental defects of enamel (DDE) can impact oral health and overall well-being.
- Preterm birth is associated with various health challenges, but its specific impact on enamel development requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of DDE in children born preterm (PT) compared to full-term (FT) children.
- To explore potential links between neonatal morbidities and the manifestation/severity of DDE in PT infants.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study comparing 52 PT children (born <32 weeks gestation) treated in NICU with 55 FT children.
- Dental examinations for DDE were conducted by a pediatric dentist between ages 1-4 years.
- DDE was defined as any alteration in the enamel surface.
Main Results:
- DDE was observed in 44% of PT children versus 11% of FT children (OR=6.47).
- PT children had a 12.87 times higher odds of anterior tooth DDE.
- Neonatal respiratory distress (OR=4.1), surfactant use (OR=5.7), and longer ventilation duration were significant risk factors for DDE in PT infants.
Conclusions:
- Children born PT exhibit a higher incidence of DDE than FT children.
- The observed DDE rates, lower than anticipated, suggest improved neonatal care may be mitigating some risks.
- Routine dental screenings are recommended for PT children, especially those requiring assisted ventilation, due to identified risk factors.
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