Emergency management of symptomatic children with severe early childhood caries in the time of COVID-19 - Protocols and procedures - A case series

Severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) is a health concern which can lead to reduced overall quality of life. In most cases, due to the extent of rehabilitation required and difficulty in obtaining cooperation of the patient due to their age necessitates management under general anesthesia (GA). However, the COVID-19 pandemic limited dental treatment to emergency procedures only. The objective of this study was to report two cases of emergency management of S-ECC, under GA, emphasizing on the protocols and procedures required to be followed to safely deliver treatment in the background of the pandemic. Two children aged 3.5 years and a 5 years, respectively, were brought to the department by their parents due to severe pain, difficulty in chewing, and disturbed sleep. They were taken up as emergency cases for rehabilitation to alleviate pain and restore function. Protocols and procedures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 during treatment were followed stringently. In emergency management to rehabilitate patients suffering from S-ECC, care should be taken to follow all protocols instituted to prevent transmission of COVID-19 infection. This is highlighted in the oral cavity due to an increased chance of transmission during aerosol-generating procedures.