Effects of Preterm Birth on Enamel and Dentin

Preterm birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, is a major global health concern with significant implications for oral and dental health. This dissertation examines how prematurity affects dental development, focusing on enamel and dentin defects, delayed tooth eruption, and craniofacial alterations. It provides an overview of global and Indian prevalence of preterm birth and reviews historical and contemporary literature to identify key findings and research gaps. The biological basis of tooth development is discussed through odontogenesis, highlighting the critical role of the third trimester and the functions of ameloblasts and odontoblasts. Systemic complications of prematurity, including nutritional deficiencies, respiratory issues, and neurodevelopmental challenges, are analyzed for their influence on dental outcomes. This book explores common dental manifestations in preterm children such as enamel hypoplasia, hypomineralization, dentin defects, altered eruption patterns, and malocclusion, with mechanistic insights into hypoxia, oxidative stress, infections, and neonatal intensive care-related factors.