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Monday, 29 August 2005 12:47

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C-sections linked to tooth decay in babies

Researchers from New York University have discovered that babies born by Caesarean section are more likely to suffer from tooth decay in later life.

Scientists found that C-section babies became infected by a cavity causing bacterium a year before babies who were born naturally.

The team examined 29 C-section babies and found that, on average, the bacterium streptococcus mutans appeared after 17 months, 12 months earlier than was the case among the 127 natural birth babies also monitored for the study.

Streptococcus mutans appears above the gum line on the surface of the teeth and turns food into cavity causing acids.

Lead researcher Dr Yihong Li said: "Vaginally-delivered infants offer oral bacteria a less hospitable environment.

"They develop more resistance to these bacteria in their first year of life, in part because of exposure to a greater variety and intensity of bacteria from their mothers and the surrounding environment at birth.

"C-section babies have less bacterial exposure at birth, and therefore less resistance."

However, he also acknowledged that a number of social factors also play a role. The C-section mothers in the study also had higher levels of tooth decay, a history of sexually transmitted disease and low family incomes.

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