Epidemiology, etiology, risk assessment, prevention,education and management of early childhood caries
The global problem of dental caries in young children cannot be ignored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Association of Pediatric Dentists (IAPD). In this regard, in november 2018, a conference on early childhood caries was held in Bangkok (Thailand). The paper aims to convey a global perspective of ECC definition, etiology, risk factors, social significance, prevention and management of early childhood caries based on the modern concept and the results of research by world experts in this field.Results. Early childhood caries is related to frequent sugar consumption in an environment of the tooth, the presence of acid - producing bacteria in plaque, as well as developmental defects of enamel. This disease has a negative impact on the quality of life of preschool children and remains widespread and often untreated according to worldwide data. Approaches to reduce the prevalence of this disease include interventions based on the principles of evidence - based medicine and start in the first year of a child’s life, taking into account existing risk factors.Conclusion. Global perspective on ECC prevention and management suggests the use of preventive measures and treatment methods that require understanding the essence of this process and reduce its prevalence.