Which condition affects teeth in children between birth and 6 years of age?

The condition that primarily affects teeth in children between birth and 6 years of age is known as nursing bottle syndrome, also referred to as baby bottle tooth decay. This condition occurs when an infant or young child is frequently exposed to sugary liquids, such as milk, formula, or fruit juice, especially when they are put to bed with a bottle. The prolonged exposure to these sugary fluids creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth, leading to the decay of the primary teeth.

Nursing bottle syndrome is particularly significant because it targets young children whose teeth are still developing, meaning the impact of decay can be more severe. If left untreated, this condition can lead to pain, infection, and premature loss of primary teeth, which can affect the child's overall dental health and future alignment of permanent teeth.

Other conditions, while relevant in other contexts of dental health, do not primarily target this specific age group or arise in the same manner as nursing bottle syndrome. For example, early childhood caries generally refers to a broader range of cavities that can affect young children, but its onset and causes can vary more widely as the child gets older. Dental fluorosis is a cosmetic condition resulting from excessive fluoride intake, commonly occurring during the teeth's development phases but usually recognized later in children