Caries Risk Assessment in Children with Early Childhood Caries and Late Childhood Caries

This study aimed to evaluate the caries risk in children with early childhood caries (ECC) and late childhood caries (LCC) using the American Dental Association's Caries Risk Assessment Form (ADA-CRAF) and compared contributing risk factors for cavitated and noncavitated lesions between the groups.

A cross-sectional study performed between January 2022 and December 2023 included 218 children aged 1-6 years, divided into ECC (<3 years, n = 109) and LCC (3-6 years, n = 109) groups, based on recently proposed caries classification terminology. Caries risk was assessed using ADA-CRAF, with clinical examinations categorizing lesions as cavitated or noncavitated. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Among participants, 78% were in the high caries risk category. The LCC group showed a higher prevalence of cavitated (78.9%) and noncavitated lesions (63.3%) compared to the ECC group (50.5% and 38.5%, respectively). Significant risk factors included visible plaque, fluoride exposure, and the consumption of frequent sugary beverages. Notably, children without cavitated or noncavitated lesions could still be classified as high risk, highlighting the importance of preventive measures.

The study revealed a high prevalence of dental caries (n = 147; 67%) among children under 6 years, based on assessments using the ADA-CRAF. The analysis of risk factors, such as visible plaque and the consumption of sugary foods, shows that these factors contribute significantly to a high caries risk in both the ECC and LCC groups.

Vignesh KC, Veeravagoo L, Gandikota KA, et al. Caries Risk Assessment in Children with Early Childhood Caries and Late Childhood Caries. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(10):1267-1271.