Feeding practices and early childhood caries - A review

Early childhood caries (ECC) is defined as the presence of 1 or more decayed (noncavitated or cavitated lesions), missing (due to caries), or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth in a child 71 months of age or younger. It has a debilitating effect on the development, speech, general health, and self-esteem of infants. Predisposing factors for ECC is considered to be multifactorial and is still unclear. The association between feeding practices and caries remains controversial with some studies finding no correlation, while others showing relation. ECC is a complex entity in which feeding practices alone does not play a prime role but is influenced by a myriad of cultural, behavioral, biological and microbiological factors. So, the area has conflicting reports which needs further research.