In the past, the standard for dentists to first treat a child was age 3. New evidence based research indicates that many children already have cavities by age 3, so waiting to see the dentist is no longer the “standard of care”. If fact, dental caries (cavities) in children under the age of 5 is on the rise and is the single most common chronic disease of childhood, 5 times more common than asthma and 7 times more common than hay fever.
So, what are the benefits of an age-one dental visit? This first visit is just like the “well visit” with the pediatrician. By allowing the dental team to educate the parents about proper home care, including brushing techniques, proper feeding recommendations and review of diet as well as what foods are high risk or low risk for causing cavities, the child has a much better chance of good oral health for a life time.
The goal isto establish the “dental home”, creating a comfort level with the dentist and the office staff and laying the foundation of trust for the child, parent and dental team.
