Mode of delivery, mutans streptococci colonization, and early childhood caries in three- to five-year-old Thai children.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To investigate whether mode of delivery is associated with mutans streptococci (MS) colonization and early childhood caries (ECC) in preschool Thai children.

Methods

Three hundred and fifty mothers and their 3- to 5-year-old children (184 born vaginally and 166 born by Caesarean section) participated in the study. Data included a dental examination, MS colonization assessed by the Dentocult(®) SM Strip Mutans method, and a questionnaire survey of family socio-demographic information, as well as children's birth history, dietary habits, and oral health practices.

Results

Overall, ECC prevalence was 56% in 3-year-old and 78% in 5-year-old Thai children. Compared to children delivered by C-section, vaginally born children experienced increased ECC prevalence (7

SUBMITTER: Pattanaporn K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4418184 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature