The relationship between maternal nutrition in pregnancy and early childhood caries – a systematic literature review

Abstract

Introduction. Odontogenesis of deciduous teeth is dependent on the intrauterine environment and shaped, among other things, by prenatal maternal nutrition. Proper deve-lopment of deciduous dentition, formation and mineralisation of the enamel and dentin determines the susceptibility to cariogenic factors. The current knowledge of the effects of prenatal nutrition and supplementation on the risk of early childhood caries (ECC) is unclear. Aim. An evaluation of the relationship between maternal nutrition in pregnancy and the risk of early childhood caries (ECC). Material and methods. A systematic review of literature on the association between prenatal maternal nutrition and early childhood caries was performed based on both electronic and manual search through medical databases, i.e. PubMed, EMBASE and MEDLINE, which allowed to identify 6 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The risk of bias was evaluated using the ROBINS-I questionnaire and a quality assessment of original papers was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results. All analysed works were at a risk of bias associated with confounders affecting the intervention and interpretation of results. Four works were considered to be of good quality (NOS > 6) and two other of medium quality. Conclusions. An increased maternal intake of vitamin D, calcium, dairy products, yoghurts and cheeses in pregnancy is an important factor reducing the risk of dental caries in their children. The risk of ECC is increased in the case of vitamin D deficiency, low intake of calcium and a diet high in fatty acids and carbohydrates.

Regulations on nutrition in Indonesia and its relation to early childhood caries

“…A lack of these nutrients since maternal period can affect the resistance of teeth to caries. Increased maternal vitamin D and calcium intake reduce the risk of early childhood caries ( 10 , 11 ).…”