Radiographic evaluation of the chronological development of permanent dentition in children infected with HIV.

The objective of this study is to determine if there is an association between HIV infection in children and alterations in the chronological development of permanent dentition detectable by radiographic examination. The sample comprised two groups of children: (1) 50 children infected with HIV by vertical transmission and (2) 50 healthy children. The groups were paired according to age, sex, race, and socioeconomic level. After obtaining a panoramic radiograph, the stages of tooth calcification and the frequency of subjects showing alveolar eruption of the first and second mandibular permanent molars were determined. There was no significant difference in stages of tooth calcification and frequency of subjects showing alveolar eruption of the permanent molars between the groups (P > 0.05). Children infected with HIV by the vertical route showed upon radiographic examination stages of tooth calcification and alveolar eruption compatible with normal patterns. There is no association between HIV infection and alterations in the chronological development of the permanent teeth, detectable radiographically, in children infected by vertical transmission.