Microcephaly as a risk factor for dental alterations: A case-control study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess whether microcephaly is a risk factor for alterations in the chronology and sequence of tooth eruption and for developmental defects of enamel.

MATHERIALS AND

METHODS

In this case-control study, 81 children aged 30-36 months, including 40 normoreactive children and 41 with microcephaly, were submitted to oral clinical examination to determine the frequency of alterations in the chronology and sequence of tooth eruption and developmental enamel defects. The sample was matched for sex and age (1:1) and allocated to the case (presence of dental alterations) and control (absence of dental alterations) groups. Gestational age, birthweight and socioeconomic characteristics were also analyzed. Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were applied (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Microcephaly was significantly associated with delayed tooth eruption, alterations in the sequence of tooth eruption, and defects in dental enamel (p < 0.001). Low birthweight also showed a significant association with this alterations (p < 0.005) and prematurity was associated with defects in enamel development (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Microcephaly is a risk factor for alterations in the tooth eruption process and enamel formation in primary teeth.