What type of bacteria are present in a newborn's mouth shortly after birth?

Shortly after birth, a newborn's mouth is typically free from bacteria. This sterile environment is due to several factors, including the protective layers formed during gestation and the unique oral environment that has not yet been exposed to pathogens or other microorganisms.

As a result, the presence of bacteria, whether they are aerobes, anaerobes, or pathogens, is not observed in a newborn's mouth immediately after birth. The infant's oral flora will begin to develop over time, influenced by various factors such as feeding (breastfeeding or formula), environment, and interactions with caregivers, but immediately post-birth, there are essentially no bacteria present.

This understanding is important in recognizing the stages of oral microbiome development in infants, as it highlights the initial sterility and the subsequent colonization process that will occur in the following days and weeks.