Risk factors for Early Childhood Caries in Italian preschoolers: A cross-sectional analysis.

Aim: Early childhood caries (ECC) represent a relevant public health issue in paediatric population globally. The current study aimed to investigate the main risk factors of this condition.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out at the Child Dentistry Clinics of the Istituto Stomatologico Italiano, Milan, Italy, including patients aged 12-71 months and their parents. Demographical data, anthropometric measurements, oral hygiene and health assessment, and children's eating habits were collected.
Conclusion: Our findings, according to recommendations, suggest that the prevention of ECC needs to begin in infancy. Oral health providers, physicians, nurses, and other health care personnel play an important role in educating parents about their child's oral and dental care and food choices.