dentistry in the news

Cavity Protection - From Mother to Child?

According to findings published in the September issue of the Journal of Dental Research, it has been found that babies born by Caesarean section exhibit evidence of Streptococcus mutans, the species of bacterium responsible for tooth decay, up to one year prior to babies that pass through the birth canal. Although babies' mouths are sterile at birth, it is suggested that vaginally delivered babies are exposed to more beneficial bacterium during the birth that Caesarean babies and are thereby offered some protection against S. mutans.

Researchers suggest that women who undergo Caesarean sections should have their babies' teeth checked as early as possible; especially those who have experienced dental decay themselves.

back to news