Mode of Delivery and Its Influence on the Acquisition of Streptococcus mutans in Infants

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries pose distinct challenges when it comes to determining their microbial etymology. Streptococcus mutans play an important role in dental caries. The aim of the present study was to compare oral microbiota in infants delivered by these different routes. A study was conducted on 40 infants. Swab sample collection was done for the detection of S. mutans. Our study indicated no differences in oral microbiota in infants due to mode of delivery. AIM: To assess whether infants born through cesarean section delivery or infants born through normal delivery influence the initial acquisition of S. mutans in infants. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: The study was carried out on the premises of Bharati Hospital, Pune, wherein 40 infants (3-36 months) were enrolled for the study. Two groups were designed. Group I: Infants born with cesarean section delivery Group II: Infants born with normal section delivery MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bacterial swab sampling was done in the participants for the detection of S. mutans. Colony-forming units on each plate were determined for the estimation of S. mutans level in oral cavity. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Bar diagram analysis and chi-square test were performed to derive p-value. RESULTS: The p value derived at the end of the study was 0.52. Hence, analysis of data demonstrates no significant influence of cesarean section delivery and normal delivery on oral microbiota development in infants. CONCLUSION: Initial acquisition of oral S. mutans in infants is not dependent on the mode of delivery. KEY MESSAGES: Initial acquisition of S. mutans, Mode of delivery. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Ubeja RG, Bhat C. Mode of Delivery and Its Influence on the Acquisition of Streptococcus mutans in Infants. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2016;9(4):326-329.