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Small primary tooth-crown size in low birthweight children
1Department of Child Dental Health, Royal London Hospital Medical College, UK.
Early Human Development
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Low birthweight (LBW) children have smaller primary teeth than normal birthweight (NBW) children. This finding suggests that early development impacts deciduous dentition size.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Human Growth and Development
- Anthropology
Background:
- Low birthweight (LBW) is associated with various developmental differences.
- Dental development is a sensitive indicator of early life conditions.
- Understanding tooth size in LBW children is crucial for growth studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare primary tooth-crown dimensions between LBW and normal birthweight (NBW) children.
- To investigate the relationship between birthweight and tooth size in LBW individuals.
- To explore potential factors influencing deciduous tooth size in LBW children.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study measured tooth-crown dimensions (mesiodistal and buccolingual) of primary canines and molars in 72 LBW children and 60 NBW controls at age 7.
- Manual measurements were taken using dial calipers.
- Statistical analysis compared tooth dimensions between groups and assessed correlations within the LBW group.
Main Results:
- Primary canines and molars were significantly smaller in LBW children compared to NBW controls.
- Mesiodistal dimensions of maxillary and mandibular canines showed the largest significant difference (P < 0.001, >4%).
- A positive correlation was observed between birthweight and mesiodistal tooth size within the LBW group.
Conclusions:
- LBW is associated with reduced primary tooth-crown size.
- Both genetic and environmental factors likely influence tooth size in LBW children.
- Early developmental factors, including prenatal and postnatal growth, may impact deciduous dentition.