Diet and Nutrition and Their Relationship with Early Childhood Dental Caries

Abstract

Early consumption of foods containing sugar is increasing and one of the consequences of this exposure is caries in early childhood, that is, in children under 6 years of age. Early consumption results in the child’s taste and food choice throughout life, maintaining cariogenic dietary patterns. It is important to emphasize that most eating behaviors occur due to family influence. Therefore, an approach in dental prenatal care and consultations until the first year of age, allows the establishment of eating habits and oral hygiene, as well as guidelines and instructions for the adoption of certain measures that contribute to the health of pregnant women and babies. Based on the present study, we conclude the importance of establishing the relationship between the dentist and the pregnant woman, since early educational actions act directly on health in the gestational period and the child’s growth. The early consumption of sugar is correlated with the occurrence of caries in early childhood due to family habits. Therefore, it becomes relevant instructions that help in maintaining healthy nutritional habits and correct oral hygiene practices, since focusing on educational actions increases the chances of healthy gestational and infant development.