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Dental Diseases in Premature Infants: A Pilot Study on Delayed Tooth Eruption During the First 12 Months of Life
N Cenzato1, G Di Iasio1, G Menozzi1
1University of Milan, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Via della Commenda 10, Milan, Italy - Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Maxillo-Facial Surgery and Dental Unit, Via Sforza 35, Milan Italy.
Insights
This pilot study investigated delayed tooth eruption in premature infants. Researchers found potential correlations between prematurity and early dental issues within the first year of life.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Dentistry
Background:
- Preterm birth is a major global cause of infant illness and death.
- Premature infants face increased risks for various health issues, including dental complications.
- Early dental development in premature infants requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine delayed tooth eruption in premature infants during their first 12 months.
- To identify potential links between prematurity and the onset of dental problems.
- To provide preliminary data for future research on infant oral health.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal pilot study compared premature infants with a control group of full-term infants.
- Infants were assessed at specific intervals (6-9 months and 12 months).
- Data included gestational age, birth weight, corrected age, chronological age, and tooth count, analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U test.
Main Results:
- The study collected data on tooth eruption patterns in both premature and full-term infants.
- Statistical analysis aimed to identify significant differences in dental development between the groups.
- Preliminary findings suggest potential variations in eruption timing related to prematurity.
Conclusions:
- This study provides initial insights into delayed tooth eruption in premature infants.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and understand the long-term implications.
- Understanding these early dental issues can inform targeted interventions for high-risk infants.
Background:
Preterm birth is one of the leading causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality globally. Premature infants have a higher risk of developing a range of complications, including dental conditions. This pilot study aims to examine delayed tooth eruption in premature infants in the first twelve months of life, in order to identify any correlations between prematurity and early dental problems.
Materials:
A longitudinal study was conducted on premature infants of the Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Regina Elena Clinic, Milan, Italy comparing 2 groups of patients. The group of premature infants (group test) was evaluated between 6 and 9 months (T1) and at 12 months (T2), compared with a second group (control group) of healthy infants, born at term, between 6 and 12 months. Data were collected through clinical examinations, considering variables such as gestational age and birth weight. A descriptive statistical analysis was conducted by calculating the mean, mode, median, and standard deviation for variables such as corrected age, chronological age, and the number of teeth in both groups (premature and full-term infants). The Mann-Whitney U test was also used to verify significant differences in the median between the test and control groups.
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