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Natal factors affecting developmental defects of enamel in preterm infants: a prospective cohort study

Shang-Yon Park1, Su Jin Jeong2, Jung Ho Han3

  • 1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Scientific Reports
|January 24, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Premature infants face higher risks of developmental defects of enamel (DDE). Factors like low birth weight and prematurity significantly increase DDE prevalence, impacting children

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Neonatal Health
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Developmental defects of enamel (DDE) are a concern in premature infants.
  • Existing indices may not fully capture DDE in this vulnerable population.
  • Understanding natal factors is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate natal and neonatal factors influencing DDE in premature infants.
  • To utilize a refined preterm developmental defects of enamel (PDDE) index for accurate assessment.
  • To identify risk factors for targeted oral health interventions.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 118 preterm infants (mean age 3.5 years) underwent dental examinations.
  • The preterm developmental defects of enamel (PDDE) index was used to record enamel defects.
  • Medical records were reviewed to identify natal and neonatal risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Advanced maternal age, gestational age < 28 weeks, birth weight < 1000g, low 1-min APGAR scores, and prolonged hospitalization increased DDE prevalence.
  • Specific neonatal conditions (bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis) and endotracheal intubation were associated with higher PDDE scores.
  • PDDE was most common in bilateral maxillary anterior teeth; extremely preterm infants showed delayed tooth eruption.

Conclusions:

  • Natal and neonatal factors significantly influence the development of enamel defects in premature infants.
  • The refined PDDE index effectively identifies DDE risks in this population.
  • Early identification of risk factors enables timely dental interventions to improve oral health outcomes for high-risk children.

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