[A study on initial colonization of Mutans streptococci on teeth in infants and toddlers].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the initial colonization of Mutans streptococci (MS) on teeth of children.

METHODS

Dental plaque was collected from 123 children aged from 7 to 42 months. MS was isolated by culturing on selective medium and identified by biochemical tests.

RESULTS

MS was detected in 51 of 123 children. The rate of colonization was 41.5%, and the mean age of colonization was 29 month. The incidence of MS infection increased with age and tooth eruption, and reached peak at 25 - 31 months, which was statistically significant. There was a correlation between infection of MS and dental caries.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that the susceptive period of MS infection is from 25 to 31 months when the second primary molars erupt. MS infection is associated with dental caries.