Early Childhood Caries: Causes, Prevention & Treatment
Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is one of the most common dental problems affecting infants and young children. Despite being preventable, it continues to impact the oral health, comfort, and overall well-being of many children. According to Dr. Rima Nandi , a trusted pediatric dentist in Newtown , early awareness and timely dental care play a crucial role in protecting a child’s smile from long-term damage. What Is Early Childhood Caries? Early Childhood Caries refers to the presence of tooth decay in children under the age of six. It often begins soon after the first teeth erupt and can progress rapidly if not treated on time. ECC commonly affects the upper front teeth but can spread to other teeth as well, leading to pain, infection, difficulty eating, and speech problems. Dr. Rima Nandi emphasizes that baby teeth are just as important as permanent teeth. Healthy primary teeth help children chew properly, speak clearly, and maintain space for adult teeth to grow in the correct position...