It is recognised that early visits for children under the age of 3 years are vital for
delivering key preventive messages, acclimatisation and beginning a positive,
lifelong relationship with NHS dentistry.
So, what needs to be delivered during a visit?
Children under the age of 3 years are usually termed “pre-cooperative” – they are
unlikely to sit still and have a check-up – so be prepared. Undertake a clinical
examination if it will not result in undue anxiety for the child. They can be
examined in a parent’s arms, or on a parent’s lap, or you can use a knee to knee
posture1
.
Parents should be reassured by their dental professional that it is normal for children to be uncertain and possibly a little
worried – after all it is a new experience. Things will improve with
familiarisation and regular attendance.
Prevention messages and intervention should be in line with Delivering Better
Oral Health
as per the below:
Prevention of caries in children aged up to 3 years of age
Advice;
Breast feeding provides the best nutrition for babies
From six months of age infants should be introduced to drinking from a free-flow
cup, and from aged one year feeding from a bottle should be discouraged
Sugar should not be added to weaning foods or drinks
Parents/ carers should brush or supervise tooth brushing
As soon as teeth erupt in the mouth brush them twice daily with a fluoridated
toothpaste
Brush last thing at night and on one other occasion
Use fluoridated toothpaste containing no less than 1,000 ppm fluoride
It is good practice to use only a smear of toothpaste
The frequency and amount of sugary food and drink should be reduced
Sugar free medicines should be used
Children aged 0-6 years giving concern (e.g. those likely to develop
caries, those with special needs)
Advice;
Breast feeding provides the best nutrition for babies
From six months of age infants should be introduced to drinking from a free-flow
cup, and from aged one year feeding from a bottle should be discouraged
Sugar should not be added to weaning foods or drinks
Parents/ carers should brush or supervise tooth brushing
As soon as teeth erupt in the mouth brush them twice daily with a fluoridated
toothpaste
Brush last thing at night and on one other occasion
Use fluoridated toothpaste containing 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride
It is good practice to use only a smear of toothpaste
The frequency and amount of sugary food and drink should be reduced
Where medication is given long term – request that it is sugar free, or used to
minimise cariogenic effects
Children aged 0-6 years giving concern (e.g. those likely to develop
caries, those with special needs)
Professional intervention
Fluoride varnish should be applied by a dental professional to teeth two or more times a year
Reduce recall interval ie 6 months to 3 months returning to see a dental professional
Diet sheets and investigation in to dietry habits should be carried out with a dental professional and assist adoption of good dietary practice in line with the
Eatwell Guide.
Where medication is given frequently or long term, liaise with the medical
practitioner to request that it is sugar free, or used to minimise cariogenic effects.