Caries Among Indigenous Children

A recent research study in the United States and Canada showed that early childhood tooth decay is one of the most common infectious diseases amongst indigenous children.

In a new policy statement, "Early Childhood Caries in Indigenous Communities," were provided recommendations for the prevention of dental disease in young children and pregnant women; as early childhood tooth decay also results in additional adverse health effects.

Despite the fact that proper oral health for mothers and their babies is promoted starting from the prenatal period, and continues as children enter school, as unlikely as it may seem, in some Canadian indigenous communities, over than 90% of children have tooth decay.

Tooth Decay Among Indigenous Children of U.S. and Canada

Not long ago we told you that one of the most common infectious diseases among indigenous children of the United States and Canada is early childhood tooth decay.  The James Irvine's statement claiming that "The influence of early childhood caries on overall childhood health and well being goes well beyond the mouth, and many of our indigenous children have not benefited fully from the many advances to improve oral health in North American children," stresses the need for indigenous children to have access to early oral health care.

"Many physicians continue to view early childhood caries as a dental problem to be treated by dentists," noted Steve Holve, MD, FAAP, another co-author.