Association between maternal oral bacteria with early childhood caries development in their children

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this prospective study was to investigate the association between maternal oral bacteria and the development of early childhood caries (ECC) in their children over a two-year period. Methods: A cohort of mothers and their children was recruited during the prenatal period. Maternal oral samples were collected to assess the presence and abundance of specific cariogenic bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. The children were followed up at regular intervals from birth until two years of age. Oral examinations were conducted to assess the presence and severity of ECC. Statistical analyses was performed to determine the association between maternal oral bacteria and ECC development in their children. Results: The study included 98 mother-child pairs, with an average follow-up period of 24 months. The results demonstrated a significant association between maternal oral bacteria and ECC development in their children. Maternal colonization of cariogenic bacteria, particularly S. mutans, was found to be a strong predictor of ECC development in their offspring, even after adjusting for confounding factors such as maternal oral hygiene, socioeconomic status, and child's diet. Higher levels of S. mutans in maternal oral samples were associated with an increased risk of ECC in children at two years of age. Conclusion: This prospective study provides evidence for an association between maternal oral bacteria and the development of early childhood caries in their children over a two-year period. Maternal colonization of cariogenic bacteria, especially Streptococcus mutans, was found to be a significant risk factor for ECC development. These findings highlight the importance of maternal oral health and the need for preventive measures targeting maternal oral bacteria to reduce the transmission and subsequent development of ECC in children. Early interventions, including oral hygiene education and preventive strategies, should be implemented to promote maternal oral health and improve oral health outcomes in children.