Early Childhood Caries and Associated Factors in Leslie-Lebohang, South Africa

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of, and factors associated with, early childhood caries in Leslie-Lebohang, South Africa. Methods: Data were collected on the date of birth (age), sex, weight at birth, duration of breast-feeding, duration of bottle feeding, age of commencement of dental cleaning, number of teeth with decay, experience of daycare and caregiver status. The data was analysed by computer using the SPSS statistical programme (Version 11.0). Results: 429 children participated. The duration of breast-feeding ranged from 0 to 4 years while that of bottle-feeding ranged from 0 to 3 years. Dental attendance was very poor with more than 90% non-attendance. The age at commencement of dental cleaning ranged from 0 to 5 years. More than 80% were caries-free, but the number of teeth with decay, in those with caries, ranged from 0 to 20. Less than 5% had daycare experience. Conclusion: There is an important need for the education of pregnant women and mothers on prevention of dental caries.