Preterm Birth Linked to Increased Risk of Dental Defects and Periodontal Issues, suggests study

Key Findings

Dental Caries:

• The prevalence of caries was 47.4% among PT children and 57.9% among FT children.

• In primary dentition, FT children had significantly higher caries rates than PT children (2.7 dmft vs. 1.6 dmft; p= 0.035).

• PT children with ELBW showed the highest caries rates (3.2 dmft; 1.0 DMFT).

Enamel Defects:

• DDE prevalence in primary teeth was significantly higher in PT children (55.3%) compared to FT children (28.9%; p= 0.008).

Periodontal Health:

• PSI scores were slightly higher in PT children (3.8) than in FT children (3.3).

• PT children with ELBW had a significantly elevated PSI score (7.4; p = 0.125), which reflected increased susceptibility to gingivitis and other periodontal issues.

The study calls attention to the major risks related to oral health for children born preterm, with an even more vulnerable subgroup having ELBW. Increased prevalence of enamel defects and poor periodontal health alongside dental caries make the provision of dental care to this risk group very comprehensive. Dental check-ups and prevention can minimize such risks and foster better oral health outcomes.

Reference:

Schlesinger HL, Heinrich-Weltzien R, Schüler IM. Oral Health of 7- to 9-Year-Old Children Born Prematurely—A Case–Control Observational Study with Randomized Case Selection. Dentistry Journal. 2024; 12(12):421. https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12120421