During my second semester of Dental Hygiene school, I worked alongside two classmates to develop an educational poster presentation (1200 POSTER) on the oral impacts of bottle-feeding and breastfeeding in infants. Our research focused on how these early feeding practices contribute to oral health, with particular attention to the development of early childhood caries (ECC). We identified a significant link between prolonged bottle-feeding and a higher risk of ECC, emphasizing the need for educating parents about proper feeding habits and preventive oral care during infancy.
Through this experience, I enhanced my skills in evaluating scientific studies and presenting complex findings in an understandable way. I also gained a deeper insight into how early feeding habits can shape a child’s oral health in the long term. This project strengthened my dedication to patient education and prevention, which I plan to continue prioritizing throughout my career as a dental hygienist.
