Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Background Early Childhood Caries (ECC) remains the most prevalent oral pathology in children, linked with significant consequences on daily life. ECC is primarily triggered by an imbalance in the oral microbiome due to excessive sugar consumption and poor hygiene. This study evaluates the impact of oral health on preschool children’s quality of life, through family perception using the ECOHIS scale and clinical classification by Nyvad criteria. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted involving 46 children aged 0–6 years treated at the University Dental Clinic of Morales Meseguer Hospital. Each child underwent a clinical oral examination based on Nyvad criteria, and their caregivers completed the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests and Cramer’s V. Results Among caregivers, 70% were women; 48% had basic education, 17% intermediate, and 35% higher education. Most ECOHIS responses were “Never” or “Almost never.” Clinically, 47.8% of children were either caries-free or had inactive lesions. No significant association was found between ECOHIS scores and caregiver age or education (p > 0.05). However, child age and caries severity (Nyvad) showed a strong association (Cramer's V = 0.55, p < 0.01): older children had more severe caries. Conclusion Family perception, as measured by ECOHIS, did not correlate with caregiver age or education. However, caries severity significantly increased with child age. These findings emphasize the need for targeted preventive strategies and greater awareness among caregivers, regardless of educational background.</p>