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Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Oral Biofilm Sampling for Microbiome Analysis in Healthy Children
Published on: December 31, 2017
[A study of oral colonization of mutans streptococci and feeding habits in infants]
Ling Tong1, Feng-zhen Geng, Shu-jie Liu
1Dept. of Stomatology, Children's Hospital of Shenyang, Shenyang 110032, China.
Insights
Early feeding habits and sleep routines in infants are linked to the colonization of Mutans Streptococci (MS). Modifying these habits can help prevent early childhood caries by delaying MS transmission.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Context:
- Infant oral health is crucial for long-term dental well-being.
- Early colonization of Mutans Streptococci (MS) is a primary risk factor for dental caries.
- Understanding factors influencing MS colonization is key for preventive strategies.
Purpose:
- To investigate the relationship between the timing of Mutans Streptococci (MS) colonization and infant feeding practices.
- To identify specific feeding habits and sleep patterns associated with early MS colonization in infants.
Summary:
- A study of 180 infants (6-24 months) in Shenyang examined the correlation between prime colonization time of Mutans Streptococci (MS) and various feeding and sleeping habits.
- Results indicated a significant correlation between early MS colonization and factors such as feeding mode, breastfeeding, feeding frequency at bedtime, and sleep habits.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that implementing appropriate feeding modes and sleep habits can effectively delay or prevent MS colonization and transmission in children.
- This research supports the development of targeted interventions to reduce early childhood caries prevalence.
Objective:
To study the correlation of prime colonization time of Mutans Streptococci and feeding habits in infants.
Methods:
One hundred and eighty children (aged 6-24 months) from Shenyang city were examined for the colonization of MS Related items were registered by completed questionnaires.
Results:
The study showed a correlation between prime colonization time and feeding mode, breast feeding, feeding frequency during bedtime, asleep habits.
Conclusion:
Advocating reasonable feeding mode and asleep habits is effective to interdict or delay MS's colonization and transmission in child to prevent caries.
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