In This Issue: Child’s First Dental Visit


Child's First Dental Visit

by Trisha O'Hehir, RDH, MS
Hygienetown Editorial Director


When is the ideal time for a child's first visit to the dental office? It used to be three years of age when all deciduous teeth were erupted. More recently the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the first visit occur by one year or within six months of the first tooth erupting. This first visit is to establish a dental home for the child. The ADA concurs, suggesting the first birthday is the time for the first dental visit. In all cases, experts suggest the visit be after the teeth erupt.

According to the research presented in this month's feature article "Window of Opportunity" by Dr. John Peldyak, it might be time to rethink the age for a child's first visit. To prevent colonization of Streptococcus mutans, (S mutans) the mother should be seen during pregnancy to be sure her mouth is healthy and not harboring high levels of acid producing S mutans. Bringing the mother's mouth to health will ensure she passes a good oral flora on to her baby after birth. The bacteria are passed from mother to baby through shared saliva from kissing, tasting food before giving it to the baby and sharing utensils.

Although mothers tend to be the primary caregivers, we shouldn't forget the fathers or the grandparents. The child's first dental visit should be for both mom and dad. In some families other caregivers are involved in the day-to-day routines of the baby. Anyone sharing saliva with the new baby should be sure to have good oral health and low levels of S mutans. Making sure these people have good oral health is the first step in the preventive process for the child. The child's first dental visit is really for the family.

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90   Continuing Education: Window of Opportunity for Prevention: Health Benefits of Early Xylitol Use
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