CAUSES OF DENTAL CARIES IN CHILDREN AND EFFECTIVE METHODS FOR ITS PREVENTION

Abstract

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay, remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among children worldwide. Despite significant advances in dental science and public health awareness, childhood caries continues to pose a major threat to oral and general health. This article explores the multifactorial causes of dental caries in children, focusing on biological, environmental, dietary, and behavioral factors. The role of cariogenic bacteria, poor oral hygiene habits, frequent sugar consumption, and inadequate fluoride exposure are examined in detail. Furthermore, the paper highlights the correlation between socioeconomic status, parental education, and access to dental care services in determining children’s oral health outcomes. Preventive strategies such as early education on oral hygiene, balanced nutrition, fluoridation, regular dental check-ups, and community-based dental programs are discussed as the most effective tools for combating childhood caries. The article also emphasizes the importance of interprofessional collaboration between pediatricians, dentists, educators, and parents in fostering healthy oral care habits from an early age. The findings suggest that prevention-oriented approaches are significantly more cost-effective and sustainable than restorative dental treatments. Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to the global effort in reducing the incidence of dental caries in children through evidence-based preventive measures and health promotion strategies.