The "Age -One" Dental Visit - Preventing Early Childhood Caries

Early childhood caries (ECC) is a prevalent and devastating disease. Some children are at greater risk than others to develop early childhood caries, which may increase the likelihood of caries-related problems throughout life. The "age-one" dental visit is the best opportunity to prevent the onset and progression of ECC. This article uses the example of the Washington State ABCD (Access to Baby and Child Dentistry) program as a means for the general practitioner to create an age-one dental visit program in the general practice. By developing a systematic approach to caries-risk assessment via clinical examination, interview of the family, and the subsequent provision of family oral health education and anticipatory guidance, much of the devastation of ECC can be prevented at an early age.