Association between breastfeeding and eruption of the first tooth in preschool children in Nigeria

Authors:

ABSTRACT

Aim

This study specifically examines the effect of the form and duration of breastfeeding on the timing of eruption
of the first tooth in Nigerian children STUDY DESIGN: The study included 398 children aged 6 months to 71 months. The
mothers were asked to provide information on the duration and form of breastfeeding, and the age of eruption of the first
deciduous teeth. The socioeconomic status (SES) of the child was calculated using the mother's level of education and the
father's occupation. Intraoral examination was conducted to assess the teeth present and dentition status of the child. A
tooth was considered present in the mouth when any part of the tooth was visible.

Results

There was no association
found between the duration of breastfeeding (p=0.48), form of breast feeding (p=0.61), duration of exclusive breast feeding
(p=0.41) and timing of eruption of the first tooth.

Conclusion

The duration of breast feeding does not affect the timing of
eruption of the first deciduous tooth, neither does the form of breastfeeding.

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