International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

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Beyond The Toothbrush: The Determinants of Early Childhood Caries

Author(s) T Rakhee, Manjunath P Puranik, Namita Shanbhag
Country India
Abstract Early childhood caries (ECC) is a globally prevalent, multifactorial disease that affects children younger than six years of age. The etiology of ECC involves a complex interplay between biological, behavioral, social and environmental factors, with Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species recognized as primary microbial agents. Epidemiological studies highlight ECC as one of the most common childhood diseases, with prevalence varying widely and affecting socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. ECC continues to represent a significant public health challenge despite advances in prevention and management. ECC extends beyond the oral cavity, affecting nutrition, growth, psychosocial development and overall quality of life. ECC cannot be considered solely an infectious dental condition but must be addressed through an integrated, multidisciplinary and community-based approach. Early detection, caregiver education, preventive strategies, and policy-level interventions are critical to reducing the burden of ECC and improving child health outcomes. This paper reviews current evidence on the determinants of ECC, including microbiological, nutritional, and behavioral contributors, as well as social, cultural, and economic influences.
Keywords Children, Determinants, Early childhood caries, Prevalence, Streptococcus mutans
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On 2025-11-13
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.59956

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