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Published on: July 4, 2018
Mutans streptococci colonization associates with the occupation of caretaker, a practise-based study
Pia Meurman1, Kaisu Pienihäkkinen, Anna-Leena Eriksson
1Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. pia.meurman@utu.fi
Background:
The early mutans streptococci (MS) bacteria colonization is connected to early childhood caries. The aim of this study is to examine associations between the MS-colonization and background factors in young children, in order to enhance the oral health program in a low caries prevalence community.
Subjects And Design:
An age cohort of 512 children was screened for MS in the oral biofilm at the age of 18 months. The caretakers were, using a structured form, interviewed of demographical factors and habits connected to oral health: antibiotic treatments, child's appetite, frequency of night feeding, use of sugary products or drinks, and maternal xylitol use. The associations were evaluated with logistic regression analysis.
Results:
Mutans streptococci colonization was significantly associated with both the occupation of the caretaker and the non-Finnish background.
Conclusion:
The early MS-colonization, in preschool children, strongly associates with the socioeconomic status of the family.
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