Early Childhood Caries in Indigenous Communities

Early childhood caries (ECC) occurs in Indigenous children at an earlier age, with a higher prevalence, and at much greater severity than in the general population. ECC results in adverse oral health, affecting childhood health and well-being, and may result in high rates of costly surgical treatment under general anesthesia. This policy statement includes recommendations for primary care practitioners to provide preventive and clinical oral health care to infants, toddlers, preschool-aged children, and pregnant women. It also addresses community-based health promotion initiatives and access to dental care for Indigenous children. The policy statement encourages oral health interventions at early ages among these children, including referral to dental care for the use of sealants, interim therapeutic restorations, and silver diamine fluoride.