Prevalence of early childhood caries and associated factors among a group of preschool children in El-Gharbia Governorate

Abstract

Background Early childhood caries (ECC) is considered one of the most prevalent diseases in young children. It is a public health problem with oral and general consequences that adversely affects the quality of child life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ECC among preschool aged children in Gharbia Governorate and its related risk factors. Patients and methods A cross-sectional study conducted among 2700 Egyptian children 3–6 years old, a stratified cluster sampling methods was utilized to choose the enrolled children, a consent and a self-administered questionnaire about sociodemographic characteristics, dental service, dietary and oral hygiene behaviors applied to parents before the dental examination. The study approved by Research Ethics Committee at Faculty of Dentistry, Tanta University. Results The prevalence of ECC among preschool aged children in Gharbia Governorate was (68.5%), it was higher in older children and in rural areas. Data revealed associations between prevalence of ECC and sex, mother education and family income. As well using bottle at bed time and drinking soda or juice were significant factors. Brushing frequency especially at bed time, parent believes about the important of brushing their children teeth also were significant factors. Conclusions This study showed high prevalence of ECC in the study population. ECC prevalence was associated with age, sex, family socioeconomic status, drinking soda or juice, night bottle feeding and teeth brushing. Results reveal the need for new preventive strategies to increase awareness about ECC, promoting good oral hygiene practices and enhancing mothers' knowledge of oral health.