Prenatal and neonatal risk factors for the development of enamel defects in low birth weight children.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the influence of several prenatal and neonatal risk factors in the development of enamel defects in low birth weight children.

SUBJECTS AND

METHODS

Children between 4 and 5 years of age (n = 102) were classified into: Group 1) 52 low birth weight (<2500 g); Group 2) 50 normal birth weight (>or=2500 g). Medical history, prenatal and neonatal variables were collected. Enamel defects were evaluated with the modified Developmental Defects of Enamel Index.

RESULTS

The prevalence of hypoplasia and average number of affected teeth were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (59.6%vs 16% and 1.6 vs 0.3 respectively). Low gestational age was linked to a higher prevalence of hypoplastic (P = 0.027) and combined defects (P = 0.001). Children with neonatal risk factors (low Apgar scores, parenteral nutrition, orotracheal intubation, mechanical ventilation and acidosis) developed defects more frequently (P < 0.05). Defects were symmetrically distributed in children who were not intubated; in those who required intubation they concentrated on the left maxillary teeth (P < 0.05). Smoking during pregnancy, young maternal age and multiple birth were significantly associated to developmental defects.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of enamel defects in primary dentition is significantly influenced by birth weight, gestational age and several systemic factors. Orotracheal intubation probably plays an important role as a result of laryngoscope trauma on the maxilla.