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Early Childhood Cavities Prevention Nation statistics show that 80% of tooth decay occurs in 20% of the population . In Oregon, that translates into approximately five out of every ten low-income children having dental cavities. Early Childhood Cavities, which includes Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, is an infectious disease that can be prevented.The Oregon Health Services as a member of the Early Childhood Cavities Prevention Coalition (ECCPC) has designed and distributed to targeted health care providers a packet of information about the problem of early childhood cavities and effective strategies for 
it prevention. This project is part of a larger campaign to increase awareness about
the importance of baby teeth and the need to receive preventive dental care in baby's
first years. The packet titled "It takes a village to grow healthy smiles," provides
anticipatory guidelines and intervention strategies. This packet was disseminated
statewide to pediatricians, family practice physicians, general practice physicians,
obstetrician/gynecologists, pediatric nurse practitioners, physician assistants,
public health nurses, W.I.C. programs, Early Head Start Programs, tribal clinics,
and Federally Qualified Health Centers. Since vulnerable populations of children
have more oral problems and less access to case, we wanted to educate a variety of
health care providers who routinely provide care for children from birth to age 3
and pregnant mothers.The Coalition is a community partnership that includes members from the Oregon Health Services, Office of Medical Assistance Programs, Oregon Dental Association, county health departments, Head Start, Indian Health Service, dental care organizations, private dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, nurses, and citizens of Oregon who are working to decrease cavities in Oregon's children. The mission of the Coalition is, "To prevent and manage Early Childhood Cavities through the implementation of primary prevention programs and interventions." Other important resources: American Dental Association brochures:
1-800-947-4746 "Pediatric Reference Card" American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry"Keep Your Baby Smiling...PREVENT NURSING BOTTLE MOUTH" brochure Idaho Department of Health and Welfare |
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