Systematic Review of Evidence Pertaining to Factors That Modify Risk of Early Childhood Caries.

INTRODUCTION: A systematic review of evidence on the impact of modifiable risk factors on early childhood caries (ECC) was conducted to inform recommendations in a World Health Organization manual on ECC prevention. OBJECTIVES: To systematically review published evidence pertaining to the effect of modifiable risk factors on ECC. METHODS: Twelve questions relating to infant feeding, diet, oral hygiene, and fluoride were addressed, as prioritized by a World Health Organization expert panel. Questions pertaining to the use of fluoride toothpaste were excluded due to its proven efficacy. The target population was children aged