Response to Horowitz: research issues in early childhood caries.
Interest in early childhood caries (ECC) remains strong internationally, yet a name remains elusive. Baby bottle tooth decay (BBTD) was widely recognized by non-dental health professionals--a factor to consider in choosing a more appropriate name. Due to limits in historic data, progress against the disease remains difficult to determine. As reflected by Dr Horowitz's list of recommendations, a focused agenda is not at hand on research leading to specific interventions. We also struggle to develop a specific set of interventions suitable for public health settings. In the absence of research-based effective interventions, I hope we do not withdraw from efforts to reduce ECC.
University of Iowa College of Dentistry, Iowa City 52242-1010, USA. david_johnsoen@uiowa.edu
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Johnsen
D001903:Bottle Feeding / Q000009:adverse effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D018865:Dental Research; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D011636:Public Health Dentistry; D009626:Terminology as Topic