Early Childhood Caries

Early childhood caries, formerly known as nursing bottle caries, baby bottle tooth decay, night bottle mouth and night bottle caries, is a disease that affects teeth in children aged between birth and 71 months

Causes of ECC

ECC happens when liquids and foods that contain sugar, like milk and juice, are left in your baby’s mouth for long periods of time. The sugar combines with bacteria (germs) on your baby’s teeth to make acid. The acid weakens the teeth and over time, can cause a hole to develop (tooth decay).

TIMING OF SCAR REVISION

The timing of scar revision is relatively arbitrary, although the location of the scar, the age, and the skin type of the patient weigh into the decision-making process. Minor scar revision such as dermabrasion or shave excision can be performed as early as 6 to 9 weeks, taking advantage of a period of high fibro blast activity that is thought to improve scar outcome. Although nearly all scars improve with time, it may be helpful to revise a scar sooner if it creates serious deformity and is likely to need revision even after significant maturation. Scars falling perpendicular to RSTLs may be favourable for candidates for early revision, because reorientation will likely be needed irrespective of the improvement with time alone.

ECC is often associated with prolonged night-time feeding on a bottle containing sugary liquid (including milk).

ECC can take just months to develop; a common early sign of the disease is the appearance of white, opaque, chalky lines on the teeth near the gumline. The upper four front baby teeth are commonly affected.

If not addressed, symptoms will eventually progress. In severe cases, children may require dental treatment, including extraction of multiple decayed teeth, under general anaesthetic in hospital. In the very early stages, ECC can be reversed with preventive treatment by a dental professional, so early identification is vital.

Parents should also check their baby’s teeth regularly (once a month) for early signs of tooth decay. Lift your baby’s top lip and look at the front teeth. White lines on the teeth, near the gum line, can be the start of tooth decay. If you notice any changes to your baby’s teeth, call your local dental clinic for advice.

ECC can cause: