Prevention of Early Childhood Caries from the First Level of Care: An Interdisciplinary Approach and Motivational...

Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is considered one of the most prevalent chronic diseases globally, particularly affecting children in socially vulnerable situations. Its significance goes beyond oral health, undermining overall development and quality of life and placing a considerable economic burden on health systems. Given the inadequacy of conventional curative approaches, this manuscript proposes a preventive model based on primary care, structured around an interdisciplinary approach and family-based communication strategies. It analyzes, based on scientific evidence, the fundamental pillars of controlling dental caries in children: promoting health from pregnancy, early education in oral hygiene, and motivational interviews, particularly relevant in contexts with structural and cultural barriers. The role of non-dental health personnel takes center stage in early detection, education, and timely referral. The proposal promotes equitable, sustainable care based on prevention from early childhood, seeking to transform oral health care into a more efficient, inclusive, and long-term oriented paradigm.