Tooth decay is contagious from parents to children
Tooth decay is contagious from parents to children
Bacteria obtained from parents can play a role in cavity creation, research shows. Steps can be taken to prevent it.
By Amanda Mascarelli, HealthKey
July 1, 2011
Cavities are more complex than we thought. Sugar is still the leading culprit — and genetics, diet, immunity, susceptibility, oral hygiene and fluoride exposure play roles — but a large and growing body of research suggests that oral decay is also an infectious disease.
Numerous studies have found that cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from primary caregivers to infants and toddlers during a period in which the children's immune systems are not fully developed — putting young children at a higher risk of cavities. Such transmission, called "vertical transmission," is most likely from caregivers (usually mothers) with severe, untreated tooth decay........
Bacteria obtained from parents can play a role in cavity creation, research shows. Steps can be taken to prevent it.
By Amanda Mascarelli, HealthKey
July 1, 2011
Cavities are more complex than we thought. Sugar is still the leading culprit — and genetics, diet, immunity, susceptibility, oral hygiene and fluoride exposure play roles — but a large and growing body of research suggests that oral decay is also an infectious disease.
Numerous studies have found that cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from primary caregivers to infants and toddlers during a period in which the children's immune systems are not fully developed — putting young children at a higher risk of cavities. Such transmission, called "vertical transmission," is most likely from caregivers (usually mothers) with severe, untreated tooth decay........
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