MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, HAWAII -- February marks the annual observance of National Children's Dental Health Month, which first began as a one-day event in Cleveland, Ohio, on Feb. 3, 1941. It was extended to a weeklong event in '55, and then became a month-long celebration in '81, according to the American Dental Association.
"An estimated 35,000 dental professionals are mobilizing to provide underserved children with the nation's largest, free dental education, screening and care event on Feb. 6, known as 'Give Kids a Smile/National Children's Dental Access Day,'" explains the ADA Web site at www.ada.org.
Locally, the 21st Dental Company encourages military families to take actions now to help prevent oral health diseases, and is taking the opportunity to increase awareness of dental health issues. In this first of a four-part series, 21st Dental outlines the most frequently asked questions about your child's first dental visit.
When should my child first see a dentist and why?
The ideal time is when your child's (primary) teeth come in, typically between 18 and 24 months of age. As a general recommendation, wait no longer then age 2. This 18 to 24-month-age window is an ideal time for the dentist to carefully examine the development of your child's mouth.
Because dental problems often start early, the sooner you schedule the visit, the better. To safeguard against problems such as baby bottle tooth decay, teeth irritations, gum disease and prolonged thumb sucking, the dentist can provide or recommend special preventive care.
How do I prepare my child and myself for the visit?
Before the visit, ask the dentist about the procedures of the first appointment, so that there are no surprises. Plan a course of action for either reaction your child may exhibit - cooperative or non-cooperative.
Very young children may be fussy and not sit still.
Talk to your child about what to expect, and build excitement as well as understanding about the upcoming visit. Bring with you to the appointment any records of your child's complete medical history.
What will happen on the first visit?
Many first visits are nothing more than introductory icebreakers to acquaint your child with the dentist and the practice. If the child is frightened, uncomfortable or non-cooperative, a rescheduling may be necessary. Patience and calm on the part of the parent, and reassuring communication with your child, are very important in these instances.
Short, successive visits are meant to build the child's trust in the dentist and the dental office, and can prove invaluable if your child needs to be treated later for any dental problem. Appointments for children should always be scheduled earlier in the day, when your child is alert and fresh. For children under 24-36 months, the parent may need to sit in the chair and hold the child during the examination. Also, parents may be asked to wait in the reception area so a relationship can be established between your child and the dentist.
If the child is compliant, the first session often lasts between 15-30 minutes, and may include the following, depending on age: a gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas; if indicated, a gentle cleaning, which includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar build-up and stains; X-rays; a demonstration of proper home cleaning; and assessment of the need for fluoride.
The dentist should be able to answer any questions you have and try to make you and your child feel comfortable throughout the visit. The entire dental team and the office should provide a relaxed, non-threatening environment for your child.
When should the next visit be?
Children, like adults, should see the dentist every six months. Some dentists may schedule interim visits for every three months when the child is very young, to build up a comfort and confidence level, or to treat a developing problem.
How do I find a dentist for my child?
Many general dentists treat children. If yours does not, ask for a referral to a good dentist in your area. A word-of-mouth recommendation from a friend or family member can also yield the name of a quality dentist.
(Editor's Note: Next week, look for information on dental sealants.)