Association between high birth weight and dental caries at 4-5 years of age: a birth-cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

Early childhood caries has become a globally crucial oral health problem over the decades. Most studies have discussed the association between low birth weight and early childhood caries; however, studies focusing on high birth weight have been relatively limited. This study aimed to assess the impact of high birth weight on the incidence and severity of dental caries in 4-5-year-old children.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Study subjects included 491 children from a birth cohort study at 4-5 years of age. Data on dental caries, prenatal and perinatal factors, and socio-demographic determinants were recorded. Logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders were performed to analyze the data. Two-sided P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of the 491 children, the prevalence of dental caries was 48.7%. High birth weight (≥ 4,000 g) was significantly associated with increased incidence of dental caries (OR, 2.000; CI 95% 1.062-3.765), and the relatively enhanced risk OR was further increased in subjects experiencing caries (dmft ≥ 3) (OR, 2.437; CI 95% 1.306-4.549) compared with the normal birth weight (2,500-3,999 g).

CONCLUSIONS

High birth weight is a risk factor for early childhood caries. Particular attention should be paid to children with birth weight more than or equal to 4,000 g.