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A B S T R A C T BACKGROUNDEarly childhood caries (ECC) is a cause of serious concern globally. It is a major oral health problem affecting the primary dentition of infants and toddlers. At first it appears as white spots along the gingival margin of upper primary incisors. As the disease progresses, the white lesions develop into cavities which gradually enlarges resulting in complete loss of the crown. The major risk factors associated with the aetiology of ECC are classified into microbiological factors, dietary factors and environmental factors. In addition to these, several other contributory factors have been identified. Factors like lack of proper feeding practices, poor socioeconomic conditions, illiterate parents and inability to avail dental care can also contribute to the development of ECC. It is important to maintain the primary dentition in a healthy condition as it is essential for chewing, speech, facial beauty, preservation of space and prevention of abnormal habits. The most common immediate consequence of untreated dental caries is dental pain which disturbs the regular activities of children such as talking, eating, sleeping and playing. Severe ECC can lead to functional, aesthetic and psychological disturbances of the child due to early loss of teeth. ECC is not self-limiting and hence requires treatment to remove infection and restore function. The treatment of ECC includes educating and counseling of mothers, fluoride application, oral hygiene measures, dietary guidance and remedial measures. Since oral health constitutes an integral part of general health, ECC if left untreated can lead to far reaching health issues. This review focuses on the prevalence, aetiology, risk factors, preventive strategies and management of ECC.

Background Orphan children living in orphanages are often neglected. These children's physical and mental health status is essential as they are highly prone to malnourishment and psychosocial distress. We aim to evaluate the orphan children's physical and psychosocial status living in orphanages. Methods This study adopted a cross-sectional research design conducted with the children living in the orphanages using a pretested, predesigned schedule. A total of 83 children (aged 5 to 19 years) living in three different orphanages in the Sonitpur District of Assam were randomly selected for the study. Body Mass Index (BMI) for age and height were then determined using WHO standards. Thinness was defined as BMI for age below -2 SD (Standard Deviation) and thinness as height for age below -2 SD. The behavioural and mental status of children aged 10–19 years were evaluated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ-21) with a cut-off value of SDQ score > 15 as the presence of emotional and behavioural distress. Results Almost 50% of orphans were in the age group of 10–14 years, 62.7% were females, and 42.2% had a primary level of education. 52.5% of orphans exhibited severe thinness for < -3 SD. Observed severe thinness more among the 5–9 years and 10–14 years (p-value < 0.05) group and among the male orphans (p-value < 0.05). Of 65 children aged 10–19, 18.5% had behavioural and mental distress. Emotional (32.3%) and poor conduct problems (23%) were observed significantly among male adolescents. Conclusions Orphaned children, particularly those living in orphanages, are at risk of malnutrition and experience behavioural and psychosocial problems. Frequent assessments of their physical and mental health are advocated for early detection, prevention, and timely intervention.

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