Estimation of caries-related risk associated with infant formulas

Resident’s Name: Laura Sabnani Date: October 16, 2008
Article title: Estimation of caries-related risk associated with infant formulas
Author(s): Erickson P, McClintock K, Green N,
Journal: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Volume (number): 20:7
Month, Year: 1998
Major topic: Caries risk infant formulas
Minor topic(s):
Type of Article: Study
Main Purpose: To estimate caries-related risk associated with 26 infant formulas and whole milk
Overview of method of research: Adult volunteers were asked to rinse with infant formula and the pH was recorded before and after the rinse. Strep sobrinus was cultured in the infant formula and an increase in the colony forming units was measured. Powdered enamel was placed in each infant formula and incubated and the solubility was calculated in the absence of bacteria. The buffering capacities were determined by mixing standardized concentrations of acid. Enamel windows were created in primary incisors crowns that were exfoliated and extracted permanent molars and these were colonized with strep mutans and incubated with infant formula. For 18 weeks, caries were assessed visually and radiographically.
Findings: The average minimum change in pH in children was found to be 5.2-5.9. 9 of the infant formulas were found to be bacteriostatic, 8 were found to support bacterial growth and bovine whole milk was associated with one of the greatest increases in bacterial growth. Enamel mineral was dissolved by incubation with certain formulas in the absence of bacteria. Some formulas were unable to buffer the addition of acids.
Keypoints/Summary: Due to the cariogenicity of most infant formulas there is a need to educate parents about the association of ECC and infant formula.
Assessment of article: Interesting article with some great information for us to give to parents.