Association Between Infant-Feeding Practices and Early Childhood Caries: A Clinical and Epidemiological Study.

ABSTRACT: Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) remains one of the most prevalent chronic conditions among preschool children worldwide. Feeding practices during infancy play a significant role in shaping oral microbial colonization and caries risk. This study aimed to evaluate the association between breastfeeding, artificial feeding, and the occurrence of ECC among children aged 3-5 years. Methods: A cross-sectional clinical and epidemiological study was conducted involving 103 children aged 3-5 years. Parents completed a structured questionnaire. Participants were divided into three groups based on infant feeding history: exclusively breastfed, exclusively artificially fed, and mixed-fed. Clinical oral examinations assessed dmft indices. Statistical analysis included Kruskal-Wall

SUBMITTER: Martha K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12732267 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature