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Colonization of mutans streptococci in 8- to 15-month-old children
T A Karn1, D M O'Sullivan, N Tinanoff
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, University of Connecticut Health Center, USA.
Insights
Mutans streptococci (MS) colonization can occur as early as 10 months in infants. Early intervention before age one may be crucial for preventing early childhood caries in at-risk populations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant public health concern.
- Colonization with mutans streptococci (MS) is a primary factor in ECC development.
- Understanding the timing of MS acquisition in infants is critical for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between age and mutans streptococci colonization in infants.
- To identify the earliest age of MS detection in a vulnerable population.
- To inform the timing of preventive interventions for early childhood caries.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 149 inner-city infants aged 8-15 months were sampled.
- Infants included in the study were still using baby bottles.
- Samples were analyzed for the presence of mutans streptococci (MS).
Main Results:
- Mutans streptococci (MS) colonization was detected as early as 10 months of age.
- In infants 12 months or younger, 25% showed detectable MS levels.
- In 15-month-old infants, 60% were colonized with MS.
Conclusions:
- MS colonization can occur in infants before their first birthday.
- Preventive measures against MS colonization may need to commence before 12 months of age for certain populations.
- Early identification and intervention are key to mitigating ECC risk.
Objective:
The age at which a child becomes colonized with mutans streptococci (MS) is important for understanding early childhood caries. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship of age with MS colonization in infants.
Methods:
Inner-city children (n = 149) between the ages of 8 months and 15 months, inclusive, who reportedly were still using a baby bottle, were sampled for MS.
Results:
Evidence of MS colonization was seen as early at 10 months of age. For children 12 months old or younger (n = 80), 25 percent had detectable levels of MS; in the 15-month age group, 60 percent were colonized.
Conclusion:
This study suggests that prevention of MS colonization in some populations may need to be initiated prior to the child's first birthday.