Mobile, AL - University Pediatric Dentistry

Starting at Age 1

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) all recommend establishing a "Dental Home" for your child by one year of age.

The Dental Home is intended to provide a place other than the
Emergency Room for parents.

Pleasant First Visit

When the child is seen at one year, the first visit can be pleasant and uneventful, introducing the child and parents to the dental office. Emphasis is on the developmental assessment of the child’s oral health. Caries (tooth decay) or developmental disturbances can be managed early. Fluoride varnish may be applied to counteract beginning decay on newly erupted teeth.

Five Steps for Baby’s
First Dental Visit

Step 1 Clinical Examination by age 12 months	• Complete medical history • Knee-to-knee exam with guardian • Note clinical dental caries • Soft tissue irregularities • White-spot lesions, tongue anatomy • Enamel decalcification, hypoplasia • Dietary staining

Step 2 Caries Risk Assessment	• Bottle or breast fed at night on demand • Non-water in bedtime bottle • Decalcification/caries present • No oral home care • Sugary foods, snacks

Step 3 Diet Counseling for Infants	• No juice or milk in bed • Sippy cups can encourage decay • Avoid sugar drinks, sodas • Encourage variety and a balanced diet • Low-sugar snacks • Fluorides – topical and systemic

Step 4 Oral Home Care for Infants	• Brush/massage teeth and gums 2x daily • Small, soft toothbrush • Tiny amount of toothpaste, with Fluoride • Guidance on thumb sucking, pacifier • Response for home accidents, trauma

Step 5 Future visits	• Based on Risk Assessment • At age one year • Two years if delayed in development

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Pediatric Dentist, Mobile, AL ~ Dr. E. Gaines Thomas, Dr. Stephen E. Greenleaf, III and Dr. Lauren Moore
University Pediatric Dentistry, L.L.C. Serving patients in the surrounding cities and suburbs of Mobile, Alabama.