Comparative evaluation of human breast milk, cow milk, infant formula and almond milk on childhood cariogenicity: An in vivo study.

Various feeding practices significantly influence pediatric oral health and cariogenic potential, necessitating evaluation of different milk types on key oral environmental markers. Hence, this in vivo study randomly divided 100 children (8 months-3 years) into four equal groups based on primary consumption of human breast milk, cow milk, infant formula or almond milk. Salivary pH, plaque pH and Streptococcus mutans colony-forming units were measured before and after feeding to assess cariogenic potential across groups. Human breast milk demonstrated superior cariostatic properties, maintaining highest pH levels and lowest bacterial counts compared to other milk types. These findings advance pediatric dentistry by confirming breast milk-s optimal role in minimizing early childhood caries risk and supporting preventive oral health strategies.