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Published on: March 31, 2021
Prevalence and Management of Early Childhood Caries in Preschoolers
Rajendran Ganesh1, Abinash Mohapatra2, Rajivi Kalpakuri3
1Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Al Baha University, Al Baha, AL Aqiq Campus, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Insights
Early childhood caries (ECC) affects 65% of preschoolers, impacting their overall health. Effective management requires comprehensive oral health programs and further research into prevention and treatment disparities.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Public Health
- Oral Health Epidemiology
Background:
- Early childhood caries (ECC) is a widespread global oral health problem in young children.
- ECC negatively impacts children's overall health and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and management of ECC in preschoolers within a specific setting.
- To identify factors associated with ECC severity.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 300 preschoolers aged 3-5 years.
- Clinical examinations and interviews on demographics, hygiene, diet, and dental visits.
- Statistical analysis to assess prevalence and associations.
Main Results:
- ECC prevalence was 65% with a mean dmfs score of 4.2.
- Age, gender, socioeconomic status, and hygiene practices correlated with ECC severity.
- Management included fluoride, education, and restorative care.
Conclusions:
- ECC is a significant public health issue requiring targeted programs.
- Comprehensive strategies are vital to reduce ECC burden and improve outcomes.
- Further research should address systemic barriers in ECC prevention and management.
Background:
"Early childhood caries (ECC)" is a prevalent and serious oral health issue affecting preschool-aged children globally, with adverse effects on their overall health and well-being.
Objective:
This center-based research designed to investigate the prevalence and management of ECC among preschoolers within a specific setting and evaluate associated factors.
Methods:
A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 300 preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years. Clinical examinations were conducted, and data on demographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and dental visits were collected through structured interviews. Statistical analysis was performed to assess ECC prevalence and examine associations between demographic/behavioral factors and ECC severity.
Results:
The prevalence of ECC among preschoolers was 65%, with a mean dmfs score of 4.2. Factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and oral hygiene practices were associated with ECC severity. Management strategies included topical fluoride application, oral health education, and restorative treatments.
Conclusion:
ECC remains a significant public health concern among preschoolers. Comprehensive oral health programs targeting this population are essential to mitigate ECC burden and improve oral health outcomes. Further research is needed to address systemic barriers and disparities in ECC prevention and management.
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