Which of the following is NOT listed as a risk factor for infants and young children regarding dental caries?

• A. Perinatal/maternal health
• B. Infant oral flora establishing
• C. Host defense systems establishing
• D. Increased salivary flow

Answer: (D)

Risk for dental caries in infants and young children is shaped by factors around birth and early life: the health status of the mother during the perinatal period can influence enamel formation and the amount of cariogenic bacteria transmitted to the infant; how the infant’s mouth microbiome becomes established sets up the initial players that drive Cariogenic processes; and how the child’s immune and host defense systems develop affects the ability to respond to bacterial challenges. Saliva plays a protective role in preventing caries. It helps wash away fermentable sugars, buffers acid produced by bacteria, provides minerals like calcium and phosphate for remineralization, and contains antimicrobial components. Increased salivary flow enhances these protective effects, so it is not a risk factor for caries in this age group.