ecc

Question 1

What is Early Childhood Caries (ECC)?

Answer 1

A biofilm (plaque)-induced acid demineralization of enamel or dentin, mediated by saliva.

Question 2

How is ECC diagnosed?

Answer 2

By the presence of ≥1 decayed (cavitated or non-cavitated), missing (due to caries), or filled surfaces in any primary tooth in a child ≤71 months old.

Question 3

What defines Severe Early Childhood Caries (S-ECC) in children <3 years old?

Answer 3

Any sign of smooth-surface caries.

Question 4

What defines S-ECC in children aged 3–5?

Answer 4

≥1 cavitated, missing (due to caries), or filled smooth surface in primary maxillary anterior teeth OR elevated dmf scores.

Question 5

What is the dmf score threshold for S-ECC at age 3?

Answer 5

≥4 surfaces

Question 6

What is the dmf score threshold for S-ECC at age 4?

Answer 6

≥5 surfaces

Question 7

What is the dmf score threshold for S-ECC at age 5?

Answer 7

≥6 surfaces