Dental caries in early childhood: A literature review

Abstract

Early childhood caries, an extremely serious dental condition, can impact children between the ages of 0 and 12. This problem is characterized by the presence of one or more compromised teeth and results from a multifactorial interaction between several elements, such as diet, oral microbiota, and lack of hygiene over time. The objective of this study was to review the literature on dental caries in early childhood. The preventive approach to this condition begins with the first dental visit around 6 months of age, requiring the active and careful involvement of the parents. Negligence in the treatment of this condition can have significant consequences on the child's quality of life, manifesting itself not only as a dental problem, but also influencing their overall development. The untreated presence of caries can generate negative impacts, triggering pain and discomfort due to the lesions. Thus, it is imperative to identify the etiological factors involved and promote changes in habits, which is the key to effective and early treatment. Additionally, in cases where the lesions are already established in the oral cavity, the determination of the best course of treatment will depend on the extent of the lesions, the child's age, and individual behavior. Comprehensive oral health care from childhood is crucial not only to prevent caries, but also to ensure healthy and complication-free development at this crucial stage of life.