Early childhood caries--a new name for an old problem.

Early childhood caries (ECC) is one the most prevalent diseases of infants and toddlers from low income, immigrant and ethnic minority backgrounds. Yet, scant research and health care resources have been allocated to allow a better understanding this disease process. Since rampant dental caries in young children cannot be exclusively blamed on known risk factors such as poor oral hygiene and diet control, other models for disease initiation and progression need to be explored. Furthermore, evidence-based recommendations are critical for dissemination of consistent and effective preventive strategies to health care providers and government agencies. To accomplish this objective, organizations concerned with children's health issues need to seek additional resources to meet this challenge and overcome this inequity.