DOI: 10.26650/iujhsr2026-1867069 ISSN: 3149-9724

The Oral Microbiome from Birth to Early Childhood: The Role of the Mother and Environmental Factors

Mervenur Cerrah, Mine Koruyucu
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The oral microbiome is a dynamic microbial ecosystem that begins to develop at birth and undergoes rapid changes during early childhood. Increasing evidence shows that early-life microbial colonization plays a crucial role in oral and systemic health. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the development and maturation of the oral microbiome from birth to early childhood. Relevant studies published in peer-reviewed journals were evaluated, focusing on prenatal, perinatal, neonatal, and postnatal factors influencing oral microbial colonization. The findings indicate that maternal oral microbiota, mode of delivery, intrapartum antibiotic use, breastfeeding, introduction of solid foods, prematurity, and antibiotic exposure in early life significantly influence the composition and diversity of the neonatal oral microbiome. Tooth eruption represents a critical transition point, leading to increased microbial complexity and diversification. Although recent studies have questioned the concept of a sterile intrauterine environment, the available evidence remains inconclusive. Early-life oral microbiome development is a multifactorial and dynamic process shaped by both maternal and environmental factors. Understanding these interactions may contribute to the development of personalized preventive strategies aimed at promoting oral health and reducing the risk of early childhood oral diseases.

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