Early Childhood Caries and the Role of the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

This article addresses issues related to early childhood dental caries (ECC) and the role pediatric nurse practitioners can play in ameliorating symptoms and promoting the oral health of children. ECC is preventable, yet it is one of the most prevalent health conditions children experience in the United States. Before kindergarten, one fourth of US children experience ECC. Factors that contribute to ECC are poor socioeconomic status and lack of parental education, health insurance, and available dentists. PNPs can play a vital role in preventing ECC by incorporating oral health assessment, education, and preventive activities as part of the routine health care surveillance visit.