# Breastfeeding vs. formula feeding on maternal oral health: periodontal and microbiological changes in the postpartum period: an observational longitudinal study

## TL;DR

Breastfeeding may negatively affect maternal oral health compared to formula feeding, with higher plaque and bleeding levels and cariogenic bacteria.

## Contribution

This study longitudinally compares periodontal and microbiological changes in breastfeeding and formula-feeding mothers postpartum.

## Key findings

- Formula-feeding mothers showed progressive oral health improvement over six months.
- Breastfeeding mothers had higher plaque and bleeding indices and cariogenic bacteria at six months.
- Breastfeeding may reduce oral-hygiene adherence due to physical and psychological strain.

## Abstract

Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its benefits to infant health, yet its potential effects on maternal oral health are rarely addressed.

This observational longitudinal study evaluated 90 postpartum period mothers, divided into breastfeeding (n = 55) and formula-feeding (n = 35) groups, assessing periodontal and microbiological parameters at baseline postpartum (T0), 15 ± 2 days (T1), 40 ± 3 days (T2), and six months postpartum (T3). All participants received standardized oral hygiene education.

While both groups improved initially, formula-feeding mothers showed progressive improvement through 6 months. In breastfeeding mothers, GBI (bleeding index) increased again at T3 vs. T2, whereas PI (plaque index) returned to T1 levels and S. mutans and Lactobacilli decreased by T3; however, at T3 the BF (breastfeeding) group still showed higher PI/GBI and cariogenic bacteria than FF (formula feeding).

These results suggest that the cumulative physical and psychological strain associated with breastfeeding may be associated with reduced oral-hygiene adherence, showing an association with maternal oral health. Targeted oral prevention strategies and inclusion of maternal dental monitoring in perinatal care protocols may help mitigate these risks without compromising the recognized benefits of breastfeeding.