Early childhood caries: case series and suggestions.

The early childhood caries (ECC) is a chronic illness common in children below 6 years. It is a syndrome characterized by presence of deciduous teeth multiple caries lesions. Scientific evidence indicate that ECC is an infectious and transmissible disease. Streptococcus mutans and other cariogenic bacteria are the microbiological agents in the disease. Prolonged contact between sugars in the liquids (like milk and juices) and cariogenic bacteria on the teeth increases caries risk. Lack of appropriate preventive measures can lead to multiple caries in susceptible infants. Ethiological aspects of ECC are investigated. After clinical case presentation, program of counseling, oral hygiene instruction, fluoride treatments, and restorative care effectiveness is described.