23 February 2023

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More than 70% of children between one and six years old have cavities in their baby teeth

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Researchers from the CEU University Polyclinic recently published a study in which they found that the prevalence of caries in early dentition was 73.3% in 30 children between one to six years old. In boys enrolled in the study, the prevalence was 70% and in girls, 75%.

Clara Garcete, professor of the master's degree program in pediatric dentistry at the CEU University Polyclinic said in the sample of patients included in the study, the team saw an advanced caries severity.

"Prevalence of caries in early dentition" was published in the journal Dental Scientific from the Official College of Dentists and Stomatologists of the Community of Madrid. Authors include professors Caridad Arias Macías, César Muelas and Alicia Martínez, Clara Garcete and Maui Blanco. 

"Until today, no epidemiological study of caries in early dentition of pediatric patients who come to the CEU University Polyclinic had been carried out," said Garcete in a news release. The study was an observational cross-sectional study consisting of a group of patients between one to six years of age. In this study, researchers used the dental cabinet, examination probe, air syringe and light.

All children were clinically screened and the prevalence of caries was calculated.

Garcete said she recommends that as soon as the first tooth appears, parents or caregivers should start brushing with a soft children's toothbrush using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste for children under three years. Children can begin to visit the dentist starting at one year with return visits every six months. In addition, children should avoid consuming sugary drinks, including soft drinks.

The authors said they consider this research of vital importance to know and better understand caries prevalence and to differentiate the stages of the disease with the aim of preventing and avoiding it.

"With the results obtained in the study, we can be aware that we are far from a caries-free child population, due to the high prevalence found," said Garcete. "So, prevention and early diagnosis are very important."

View the study on the journal's website.