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Prolonged demand breast-feeding and nursing caries
K L Weerheijm1, B F Uyttendaele-Speybrouck, H C Euwe
1Department of Cariology, Endodontology, Pedodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, The Netherlands. K.Weerheijm@acta.nl
Caries Research
|January 23, 1998
Summary
Prolonged breastfeeding is not linked to higher cavities. However, frequent nighttime nursing and low fluoride use increase the risk of nursing caries in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Public Health Nutrition
- Child Development
Background:
- Prolonged breastfeeding on demand is common among mothers attending La Leche League.
- Understanding caries risk factors in this population is crucial for preventive strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize prolonged demand-breastfed children.
- To identify risk factors associated with caries, specifically nursing caries, in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 96 Dutch children (mean age 28.8 months) was studied.
- Data collected via questionnaires, dietary sheets, and dental examinations for caries status.
- Children categorized into caries-free, caries, and nursing caries groups.
Main Results:
- 14.5% of children had dentine caries, with 9.3% meeting nursing caries criteria.
- Frequent breastfeeding (day/night) and bed-sharing were associated with the nursing caries group.
- Lower use of fluoridated toothpaste and other fluoride sources were noted in caries groups.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged demand breastfeeding itself does not elevate caries prevalence.
- Frequent breastfeeding, particularly at night, combined with insufficient fluoride exposure, are significant risk factors for nursing caries.