Research findings showed mothers with cavities can
transmit caries-producing oral bacteria to their infants if they clean their
pacifiers by sticking them in their own mouths first, or share utensils with
their babies before feeding them.
Findings of the study were posted on Science Daily®
in February.
As
stated by Liliana Rozo D.D.S, an AAPD board certified pediatric dentist and
assistant professor, University of Louisville School of Dentistry, “decay can
have a detrimental effect on a child's quality of life, performance in school
and success in life. According to Ruzo, it is a common mistake for parents to
make because they do not make the connection between oral health and overall
health, but they are related. “The mouth is an open door for many microbial
infections to enter the bloodstream. Poor oral health may be a risk factor for
systemic disease.”
Parents
are now encouraged to make appointments for their babies with a pediatric
dentist as soon as their first teeth erupt through the gums by the The American
Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). This helps parents establish a
relationship with their children’s dentist, and help familiarize and inform them
about proper hygiene, teething, normal tooth development, and trauma
prevention.
