Amoxicillin Use in Infancy and Enamel Defects in Permanent Teeth

Researchers from the University of Iowa recently reported an association between early amoxicillin use and enamel defects in primary molars.¹ The same investigators examined the relationship between amoxicillin exposure in early childhood and enamel defects in permanent teeth. The Iowa Fluoride Study is a prospective epidemiological assessment of children’s dental health involving a convenience sample of 1390 subjects recruited at birth in Iowa hospitals in 1992–1995. Participants are predominantly white (98%) and of relatively high socioeconomic status. Amoxicillin exposure was ascertained from questionnaires mailed to families at 3- to 4-month intervals during the subjects’ first 32 months of life. Parents were asked to identify specific antibiotics given during each reporting period, including the route and duration of administration. Data were also collected on fluoride intake, illnesses, …