Early childhood caries in infants and toddlers

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to perform a preliminary assessment of early childhood caries (ECC) in infants and toddlers accessing medical care at various community health centres in Trinidad, to identify any risk factors (nutritional or hygiene factors) that may be associated with early childhood caries, to determine oral health knowledge of parents or caregivers of children within this age group and to utilise this information to promote the early implementation of dental care programmes to diminish the impact of dental caries in children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 215 toddlers under three years of age attending immunisation clinics at health centres in north Trinidad. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire administered through an interview with attending mothers and clinical examination was performed using a mirror and blunt probe by calibrated examiners. Data analysis was performed using SPSS with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: The prevalence of ECC was found to be 12.5% for cavitated lesions and 25.1% if both cavitated and non-cavitated lesions were considered. Maternal level of education, bottle feeding practices and the use of fluoridated toothpaste were contributory to ECC in this age group. Conclusion: ECC is a disease that significantly affects this age group in Trinidad and Tobago. Early presentation to the dental setting for preventive care advice, as well as large scale public health education campaigns can help reduce the experience of ECC and its associated comorbidities in this population.