When should I bring my newborn child in for his/her first visit? I hear this question regularly from parents who want to take good care of their children. The American Dental Association (ADA) Statement on Early Childhood Caries (http://dev.ada.org/2057.aspx) states that it is advantageous for the first visit to occur within the six months of eruption of the first tooth and no later than 12 months of age. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s guidelines recommend the first examination at the time of the eruption of the first tooth and no later than 12 months of age.
This early first visit is a great opportunity to educate parents about the importance of early childhood oral health care practices, including oral hygiene, and nutrition, based on the child’s medical history and family situation. For communities where there is no fluoridated water, the first visit can be an opportunity to prescribe fluoride supplements, if needed. Here in Davis County, Utah, most community water is fluoridated so there should be no additional fluoride supplements given to children. A fluoride varnish can be provided in the first visit and is painted on the teeth.
Starting visits at this young age can be a valuable part of putting the child on a path to a cavity free mouth. If we follow these recommendations we can make a significant contribution to reducing dental cavities in children.
Kim Michelson, DDS
Dental Director, Utah Department of Health
