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Updated: May 28, 2026
09:51
Purification of a High Molecular Mass Protein in Streptococcus mutans
Published on: September 14, 2019
[[Streptococcus mutans Acquisition and Dental Caries Development in First-Born Children].]
Erica Noce1, Cassia Maria Fischer Rubira, Odila Pereira da Silva Rosa
1Mestre em Odontopediatria pelo Departamento de Odontopediatria da Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Bauru/SP, Brasil.
Pesquisa Brasileira Em Odontopediatria E Clinica Integrada
|October 25, 2011
Summary
Early childhood caries development is linked to high Streptococcus mutans (SM) scores. Good oral homecare in children from low socioeconomic backgrounds can delay SM colonization, even with highly colonized mothers.
Area of Science:
- Oral health research
- Pediatric dentistry
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptococcus mutans (SM) is a primary agent in dental caries development.
- Early childhood caries is a significant public health concern, particularly in low socioeconomic status (SES) populations.
- Understanding the timing of SM acquisition and its association with caries is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the timing of Streptococcus mutans (SM) acquisition in infants from low SES families.
- To evaluate the development of dental caries over 23 months in these children.
- To identify variables associated with SM colonization and caries development.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 14 families with highly SM-colonized mothers.
- Inclusion of 14 first-born children, 28 parents, and 8 relatives.
- Regular clinical examinations and SM counts in children and adults over 30 months.
- Assessment of caries indices and periodontal conditions in adults.
Main Results:
- High SM prevalence was observed in adult family members.
- SM colonization in children increased over time, detected in 10 children by the final visit.
- Dental caries was detected in only 3 children, significantly associated with higher SM scores.
Conclusions:
- Low SES and maternal SM colonization do not guarantee early childhood SM colonization or high caries activity.
- Effective oral homecare can mitigate early SM transmission and caries development.
- High SM scores in children are significantly associated with dental caries development.
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