Early Childhood Caries — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyPaediatric DentistryEarly Childhood CariesNDEB AFK

A 3-year-old child with no previous dental visits presents with white spot lesions on the labial surfaces of the maxillary primary incisors. What type of caries pattern does this most likely represent?

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Correct answer: A — Early childhood caries (ECC)

Early childhood caries (ECC) is defined as the presence of one or more decayed (non-cavitated or cavitated), missing (due to caries), or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth in a child under 6 years. White spot lesions on the labial surfaces of maxillary primary incisors are the earliest clinical sign, typically caused by prolonged bottle-feeding (especially at night), frequent breastfeeding, or high-sugar diet combined with inadequate oral hygiene. The maxillary incisors are affected first due to proximity to the upper lip and lack of salivary protection.

Reference: Dean – McDonald and Avery's Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent, 11th ed., 2021