Early Childhood Caries and Its Determinants in Qom Province, Iran

Introduction: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a highly prevalent condition that significantly impacts children’s general health and quality of life, while also imposing substantial economic burdens on families and healthcare systems. Its treatment is often complex and costly, sometimes requiring sedation or general anesthesia in young children. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ECC among children aged 12 to 71 months in Qom province in 2022. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study included 172 children aged 12–71 months in Qom. Participants were recruited from 15 clusters, including kindergartens and health centers. Children were categorized as toddlers (12–47 months) and preschoolers (48–71 months). Data were collected through clinical oral examinations and structured, face-to-face questionnaires completed by parents or guardians. Caries diagnosis was based on WHO criteria, and plaque was assessed using the Silness & Loe index. Results: The mean dmft score was 1.46 (SE = 0.27). The overall prevalence of ECC was 26.7%, with 13.6% in toddlers and 48.6% in preschoolers. Visible dental plaque was observed in 49% of children (38.6% of toddlers, 65.9% of preschoolers). ECC prevalence and mean dmft scores were significantly higher in rural areas (p < 0.009). A significant association was found between lower fathers’ education and higher DMFT scores (p < 0.05). Children who consumed sugary snacks and drinks had significantly higher dmft scores (p = 0.02) and ECC prevalence (p = 0.02). Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive snapshot of ECC prevalence and its determinants among 1–5-year-old children in Qom, Iran. The relatively high burden of ECC and its strong association with socio-behavioral determinants such as residence in rural areas, low parental education and poor dietary habits underscore the need for integrated and equity-focused oral health programs. Keywords: Early childhood caries (ECC); Dmft; Dietary habits; Tooth-brushing; Parental education.