Early Childhood Caries

Early Childhood Caries is defined as the presence of one or more decayed (non-cavitated or cavitated lesions), missing (due to caries) or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth in a preschool-age child between birth and 71 months of age. The term “Severe Early Childhood Caries” refers to “atypical” or “progressive” or “acute” or “rampant” patterns of dental caries. Early childhood caries is still one of the most prevalent diseases in children worldwide. ECC does not only affect children’s oral health, but also the general health of children. Not only oral pain, orthodontic problems, and enamel defects, but also problems with eating and speaking can occur as well as an increased risk for caries development in the permanent dentition. Premature loss of primary dentition often leads to orthodontic problems in adult life.