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Andy's Safari Adventures

Andy works at Safari World, the biggest and best safari park on the planet, with his boss, Mr Hammond, and his tech wizard assistant Jen, who monitors all the animals from the control tower.

Andy's Safari Adventures

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Andy's Safari Adventures ( ASA ) is a CBeebies television show starring Andy Day , it is the fourth series of Andy's Adventures .

3.1 Series 1 (2018)
3.2 Series 2 (2019)
4 Title song

Premise [ ]

Andy now works at Safari World , the biggest and best wildlife park on the planet, with boss, Mr Hammond , and tech wizard Jen . When trouble strikes Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to visit animals around the world in search of a solution.

There were two series released, the first in 2018 and the second in 2019.

The next series called Andy's Aquatic Adventures follows the same story but Andy now travels to find aquatic animals.

Andy Day as Andy
Puja Panchkoty as Jen
Adam Astill as Mr Hammond

Episodes [ ]

Series 1 (2018) [ ], series 2 (2019) [ ], title song [ ].

CBeebies_Songs_Andy's_Safari_Adventures_Theme_Song

Gallery [ ]

AWA was in 2012
ADA was in 2014
APA was in 2016
The first series of ASA was in 2018.
1 Andy's Adventures
2 Andy's Dinosaur Adventures
3 Andy's Wild Adventures

Cast & crew

Andy's Safari Adventures

Andy works at Safari World, the biggest and best wildlife park on the planet, with boss, Mr Hammond, and tech wizard Jen. When trouble strikes Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to visit ani... Read all Andy works at Safari World, the biggest and best wildlife park on the planet, with boss, Mr Hammond, and tech wizard Jen. When trouble strikes Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to visit animals around the world in search of a solution. Andy works at Safari World, the biggest and best wildlife park on the planet, with boss, Mr Hammond, and tech wizard Jen. When trouble strikes Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to visit animals around the world in search of a solution.

Adam Astill
Puja Panchkoty
1 Critic review
1 win & 1 nomination

Episodes 40

Andy Day in Andy and the Asian Elephants (2019)

Mr. Hammond
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Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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Trivia The three domes in their HQ are the Eden Project in Cornwall, UK.

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February 12, 2018 (United Kingdom)
United Kingdom
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British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
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Lions, Giraffes & Other Adventures episodes (10)

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Moscow Metro and Swan Lake

A few days ago, I went with Elena and Becky on a trip around the Moscow metro, the second most heavily used metro system in the world. I didn’t know much about it before, but it’s an architectural marvel in and of itself, a gorgeous relic from Moscow’s Soviet past and Stalinist architecture in particular. We rode around the central brown line, a circle of 12 stations that Stalin oversaw the creation/renovation of in the 1930s and 40s. All are ornately decorated with different themes (sports, French palatial architecture, Lenin portraits, etc), in a way that was intended to remind the average rider of all the ways their government was giving back to them for their hard work. Apparently, they all have an emphasis on “verticality”, essentially meaning that either the ceilings are very lavish, or the art on the walls is dimensioned to draw the eye upwards, reminding metro-goers of the place of Stalin in their lives. Below are pictures of my favorite stations.

All of the stations are fairly deep underground, hence scarily steep escalators.

Series of mosaics depicting key moments in the formation of the Soviet Union. If I get more time later I’ll dig up the names of these stations…

Bolsheviks unite!

From a station dedicated to different sports.

These gates are meant to emulate a temple, in a departure from pre-WWII atheistic style.

Becky, Elena, and Mother Russia

From a station dedicated to unnamed soldiers: this one is of an infantryman.

Station of Unnamed Soldiers

Station with fancy French ornamentation and ceiling paintings.

I was surprised by the amount of Greco-Roman inspired decoration.

And finally, my favorite: a series of geometrical stained glass windows.

To top off our time in Moscow, last night we managed to get student rush tickets (for 100 roubles, or $3!) to closing night of Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theater. The seats were terrible (it’s hard to explain how bad, but we had to stand for most of the show) but the ballet was incredible. We found out about the existence of student rush tickets/the process to get them very randomly, and as I haven’t found the process documented anywhere else, here’s a quick description: if you go to the Bolshoi at any given day starting at 6 am, you can put your name (and your group’s names) on a list for tickets to the day’s performance (it hosts ballet and opera performances on alternating days). A queue starts forming outside the theater at 2 pm, roughly based on the order of your name on the list, and tickets are handed out at 5:30 pm. Although this rushing system applies to all students, the ticket attendees might give you a hard time by refusing any non-Russian IDs (this actually happened to me, and I was only able to go as Elena’s boyfriend Luke kindly gave his up his ticket for me).

Fun fact: the Bolshoi is featured on the 100 Rouble note, and the insignia in front of the theater on the bill displays a hammer and sickle. Although hammers and sickles are still common sights around the city, the Bolshoi happens to have since switched its insignia to the logo of the modern Russian Federation, the double-headed eagle. Credit to Becky for noticing.

Seating in the Bolshoi: the big box on the right is known as Stalin’s Box. Apparently he fancied himself a connoisseur.

Exterior of the Bolshoi at Night

Random photo of the day: a small bakery at which we bought a jam bun and a small bag of glazed wheat rolls. Tiny bakeries like this are all over the place (including in the metro stations, with fully functioning mini-ovens!), and make me feel perpetually hungry as I walk around.

Bkycho (Delicious)!

Russian outlet MSK1.ru reported the blaze at the substation and noted “several” power outages.

The town of Lytkarino, located to the southeast of Moscow, was one of the affected areas, as reported by the independent outlet, Meduza .

Additional power failures were reported in the southern Domodedovo section of the city. However, electricity was later restored to these areas.

One local resident speculated that a drone may have been responsible for the explosion, but additional sources are yet to support this theory.

Newsweek reported that messages on the ASTRA Telegram account run by independent Russian journalists showed residents near the substation panicking. One concerned Russian called it a "nightmare."

The incident follows an attack by Russia on a power station in southwestern Ukraine that left 2,000 people without electricity .

Knewz.com reported previously:

“ Russian forces launched a total of 38 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 drones during the later hours of November 17 and 18.

The Ukrainian Air Force Command reported that 29 of these drones were shot down [...].

One civilian was injured as a result of the attack that targeted energy infrastructure in the southwestern Odesa Oblast.”

The assault came after repeated warnings by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky that Russia would try to cripple its power grid as winter approaches.

Ukraine's leader warned that if Russia resorted to attacking its power utilities, it would respond in kind.

Ukraine has conducted numerous long-range aerial drone strikes on Moscow since May 2023.

Most recently on November 20, it was reported that one such incursion was intercepted close to the city, per Kyiv Post .

Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed this and elaborated that the region's air defense systems intercepted the unmanned craft over the city of Elektrostal to the east of Moscow, as well as another over the Bogorodsky district, northeast of central Moscow.

The details of the recently surfaced video footage have yet to be independently verified.

The Moscow skyline lit up on November 22 causing panic. By: Meduza

average age of first dental visit

Second Opinion

A Child's First Dental Visit Fact Sheet

When should your child first see a dentist? You can take your child at a younger age, but experts recommend taking him or her within 6 months of the first tooth coming in (erupting), or by about 12 months at the latest.

At this time, the dentist can give you information on:

Baby bottle tooth decay
Infant feeding practices
Mouth cleaning
Pacifier habits
Finger-sucking habits

Prepare your child

If possible, schedule morning appointments so young children are alert and fresh.

Prepare a preschooler or older child for the visit by giving him or her a general idea of what to expect. Explain why it is important to go to the dentist. Build excitement and understanding.

Prepare yourself

Discuss your questions and concerns with the dentist. Remember that your feeling toward dental visits can be quite different from your child's. Be honest with your view of the dentist. If you have dental anxieties, be careful not to relate those fears or dislikes to your child. Parents need to give moral support by staying calm while in the dental exam room. Children can pick up parents' anxieties and become anxious themselves.

Prepare the dentist

At the first visit, give the dentist your child's complete health history. For a restoration visit, such as getting a cavity filled, tell the dentist if your child tends to be stubborn, defiant, anxious, or fearful in other situations.

Watch how your child reacts. Many parents are able to guess how their child will respond and should tell the dentist. Certain behaviors may be linked to your child's age:

10 to 24 months. Some securely attached children may get upset when taken from their parents for an exam.

2 to 3 years. A securely attached child may be able to cope with a brief separation from parents. In a 2-year-old, "no" may be a common response.

3 years. Three-year-olds may not be OK being apart from a parent when having a dental procedure such as getting a cavity filled. This is because most 3-year-olds are not socially mature enough to separate from parents.

4 years. Most children should be able to sit in another room from parents for exams and treatment procedures.

The first visit

Your child's first dental visit is to help your child feel comfortable with the dentist. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child proper home cleaning such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Baby teeth fall out, so X-rays aren’t often done. But your child's dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child's age. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth. In general, it is best that young children not have dental X-rays unless absolutely needed.

The second visit

Just like adults, children should see the dentist every 6 months. Some dentists may schedule visits more often, such as every 3 months. This can build comfort and confidence in the child. More frequent visits can also help keep an eye on a development problem.

Protect your children's teeth at home

Here are some tips to protect your children's teeth:

Before teeth come in, clean gums with a clean, damp cloth.

Start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a very small amount of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) when your child's first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized dab of fluoridated toothpaste after 3 years of age. This is when the child is old enough to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

Prevent baby bottle tooth decay. Don't give children a bottle of milk, juice, or sweetened liquid at bedtime or when put down to nap.

Limit the time your child has a bottle. Your child should empty a bottle in 5 to 6 minutes or less.

Help your child brush his or her own teeth until age 7 or 8. Have the child watch you brush, and follow the same brushing pattern to reduce missed spots.

Limit foods and treats that increase tooth decay. This includes hard or sticky candies, fruit leather, and sweetened drinks and juice. Offer fruit rather than juice. The fiber in fruit tends to scrape the teeth clean. Juice just exposes the teeth to sugar.

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A child's first dental visit fact sheet.

When should your child first see a dentist? You can take your child at a younger age, but experts recommend taking your child within 6 months of the first tooth coming in (erupting), or by about 12 months at the latest.

At this time, the dentist can give you information on:

Prepare a preschooler or older child for the visit by giving them a general idea of what to expect. You can tell them about the exam room, the instruments they might see, the face masks the dentist and hygienist may wear, and the bright exam light. Explain why it is important to go to the dentist. Build excitement and understanding.

If you don't know the dentist, interview the person first to see if they sound right for your child's needs and personality. At the first visit, give the dentist your child's complete health history. For a restoration visit, such as getting a cavity filled, tell the dentist if your child tends to be stubborn, defiant, anxious, or fearful in other situations. Ask the dentist how they handle such behavior. If you aren't comfortable with the answer, find another dentist.

Watch how your child reacts. Many parents are able to guess how their child will respond and should tell the dentist. Certain behaviors may be linked to your child's age:

10 to 24 months. Some securely attached children may get upset when taken from their parents for an exam.

3 years. Three-year-olds may not be OK being apart from a parent when having a dental procedure, such as getting a cavity filled. This is because most 3-year-olds are not socially mature enough to separate from parents.

Your child's first dental visit is to help your child feel comfortable with the dentist. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child correct home cleaning, such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Baby teeth fall out, so X-rays aren’t often done. But your child's dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child's age. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth. In general, it is best that young children not have dental X-rays unless absolutely needed.

Here are some tips to protect your children's teeth:

Start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) when your child's first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized dab of fluoridated toothpaste after 3 years of age. Children should spit after brushing. Encourage them not to swallow extra toothpaste.

Prevent baby bottle tooth decay. Only put breastmilk or formula in bottles. Don't give children a bottle of juice, soft drinks, or sweetened liquid.

Limit the time your child has a bottle. Children should finish bottles before going to sleep.

Encourage your child to use a cup around their first birthday.

Help your child brush their teeth until age 7 or 8. Have the child watch you brush and follow the same brushing pattern to reduce missed spots.

Medical Reviewers:

Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Michael Kapner MD
Rita Sather RN
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Start earning CE Units in minutes!

A Child’s First Dental Visit

An exploration of why the age 1 visit is a game changer in terms of overall oral health and childhood caries.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

After reading this course, the participant should be able to:

Explain the concept and value of a dental home and the Age 1 dental visit, as well as utilization rates for this model of care.
Describe fundamental clinical practices and challenges when caring for infants and young children.
Detail key issues surrounding childhood caries and the need to educate parents and caregivers of young pediatric patients.

For the better part of the last 100 years, dentistry followed the “see and treat” concept; meaning that oral health care was, for the most part, treatment oriented. Dentists did what they were trained to do, which was to treat dental caries. Most patients visited the dentist to address a specific problem (usually prompted by the occurrence of pain). Many did not consider primary teeth important, since they were looked upon as being transitional, and would soon be exfoliated and replaced by permanent teeth. In fact, in the 1950s some dental offices had signs in their waiting rooms proclaiming, “No children under age 13 treated.”

With an increase in the knowledge of the dental caries process, dentists gradually began to see children at earlier ages. Many dentists were ill equipped to communicate with and/or treat such young patients; consequently, the recommended age for the child’s first dental visit was on or after the 3rd birthday. Dentistry for patients under the age of 3 was largely approached didactically and not clinically. Prevention of dental disease for this group was a mere afterthought.

PARADIGM SHIFT

Once dental caries was understood as a chronic bacterial disease with a behavioral component, the paradigm shifted from treating the resulting damage to addressing the cause (prevention). In turn, this shift had a significant impact on determining the optimal age for the first dental visit.

Dentistry will never “drill its way out” of the early childhood caries (ECC) epidemic. For practitioners to succeed in the fight against ECC, they must improve preventive efforts and manage lesions in their earliest stages. A patient’s risk of developing dental caries starts with the introduction of oral pathogens into an infant’s mouth; therefore, first seeing the dentist at age 3 could prove too late. The age 1 visit not only allows for preventive therapies and early treatment, it also benefits the child by helping to establish optimal feeding and oral hygiene habits.

In a 1992 policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics proposed a definition of the medical home and referred to the “delivery of advanced primary care, with the goal of addressing and integrating high quality health promotion, acute care, and chronic condition management in a planned, coordinated and family centered manner.” 2 In 2001, the AAPD adopted its Policy on the Dental Home, based on the American Academy of Pediatrics’ medical home concept. Children who have a dental home are more likely to receive appropriate and routine preventive care and thus have a reduced risk of dental disease. 3

The recommendation for a child’s first dental visit to occur at or before age 1 has been the standard since 2001. Yet, practically speaking, dentistry for patients under the age of 3 continues to be largely spoken of didactically, and not widely implemented clinically in general practice. This is not a criticism as much as an observation. Dentists are busy addressing the functional and physical effects of dental caries and have little time to address the process. Many have not been adequately trained to understand the purpose and method of introducing the age 1 patient to clinical practice. This article will explain the rationale, benefit and technique for implementing the age 1 dental visit. The goal is to make dental practitioners comfortable and competent in meeting this standard of care.

RATIONALE FOR EARLY CARE

Dental caries is a preventable, chronic disease that is influenced by social and behavioral factors. Improving access to — and the use of — preventive and disease management strategies, along with early dental visits, will contribute to better patient outcomes, reduction of per capita health care expenses, and improved utilization of services.

According to research, annual treatment costs for children who had their first dental visit by age 1 are significantly less than for patients who wait until they are older. 4 Children seen by a dentist before age 1 are more likely to see the dentist on an ongoing basis, and less likely to require restorative or emergency visits. By comparison, those seen for the first time at age 2 and age 3 have an increased need for preventive, restorative and emergency visits over time. 5

Unfortunately, 23% of children continue to experience dental caries, with children from ages 2 to 5 experiencing increasing rates. 6 In 2015, 57% of children on Medicaid did not receive preventive oral health services. 7 Previous research showed that Medicaid patients ages 1 to 5 accounted for 45% of total dental costs, even though this age group represented only 5% of the insured population. 6 In a 2015 retrospective review of privately insured patients, only 1% had their first dental visit by age 1. 8

It is logical to ask, “If so much could be done to enhance oral health with effective preventive strategies implemented in the first year of life, why hasn’t dentistry been more effective in this regard?” This is a good question with a complex answer.

Seldom is a patient under the age of 3 cooperative in the dental office. If the dentist’s role is only restorative, there is a dilemma of how to perform complicated procedures on kicking, screaming and crying patients. In years past, many dentists were ill prepared to cope with such patients, therefore treatment was delayed until after the patients were better able to cooperate, usually after their 3rd birthday.

Only recently have the age 1 visit, the value of a dental home, and the clinical skills to complete an infant oral examination been emphasized in dental school curricula. While practicing general dentists may have been exposed to these concepts, as previously noted, many have not been trained in the delivery of care for such young patients.

In addition, dentists are trained to diagnose and restore the consequences of dental disease. Far too often, dentistry is viewed as a surgical specialty, and the schedules of many dentists are customarily filled with patients having broken-down teeth needing immediate attention. If this pattern is to be reversed, there must be a complete paradigm shift emphasizing preventive care and, when possible, nonsurgical management.

Caries risk assessment for first dental visit

THE THREE PILLARS

A proper infant oral examination visit rests upon three pillars:

Risk assessment
Oral examination
Anticipatory guidance

Risk Assessment: Effective infant preventive dentistry begins with an assessment of individual risk factors, as established through the medical, social and dental histories (Table 1). Preventive strategies are subsequently developed to address the patient’s specific risk. These activities occur before the patient’s oral exam and are aimed at providing the primary caregiver with adequate information to reduce the risk of dental caries.

Special attention should be given to the primary caregiver’s dental history. The infant’s oral pathogens are the result of vertical transmission from the primary caregiver. Untreated caries and high bacterial counts from periodontal conditions in the caregiver’s mouth result in the infant having a bacterial flora conducive to caries development. 9

Feeding habits affect caries risk through both what is eaten, and how it is eaten. Carbohydrate-rich diets are highly cariogenic and should be limited. Feeding on demand and/or at night leads to what was formerly referred to as “baby bottle decay,” but now is now known as ECC. 10 The American Academy of Pediatrics recommend infants be breastfed until age 1. 11 Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding should not be ad lib. Feeding at night increases the risk of caries formation. During sleep, the body’s systems slow and respirations and the heart rate decreases. There is also reduced salivary flow, and this diminishes the natural cleaning and buffering effect of saliva.

Oral Examination: The examination of the infant’s oral cavity takes place in a knee-to-knee fashion (Figure 1). The dentist cradles the infant’s head in his or her lap while supporting the head. The caregiver holds the infant’s hands and feet. It is normal and beneficial for the infant to cry, as this ensures the mouth is open and an adequate visual examination is possible. The dentist should communicate throughout the examination and remain complimentary of the infant and caregiver. Clinical observations should be pointed out, and the provider should demonstrate proper technique for cleaning the teeth using a gauze, toothbrush or washcloth. Finally, fluoride varnish should be applied. (Additional clinical resources are found in Table 2.)

Anticipatory Guidance: In terms of diet and feeding habits, breastfeeding should be encouraged and added carbohydrates avoided. Feeding should be on a schedule and infants should never be put to bed with a bottle. Water after feeding should also be encouraged.

The child should be introduced to toothbrushing when the first tooth erupts. A soft-bristle brush with an age-appropriate amount of fluoridated toothpaste is recommended (refer to the AAPD’s guideline on fluoride use). As noted, the dentist should demonstrate the technique to the caregiver during the knee-to-knee examination. Other sources of fluoride include drinking fluoridated water and use of fluoride varnish, which should be placed on primary teeth at each dental visit.

TOOTH ERUPTION

NONNUTRITIVE HABITS

Nonnutritive oral habits are common in infants. The caregiver should be assured these are normal and that most infants discontinue them in time. Persistent habits that are causing distortion of the oral cavity can be addressed when the patient is mature enough to want to quit. Until then, the dentist should monitor the habit and any resulting oral changes it is causing.

RECALL VISITS

High-risk patients should be placed on a three-month recall schedule. Fluoride varnish should be applied at these visits. Additional anticipatory guidance information should be reemphasized at each appointment. More information on the infant examination can be found in the AAPD Guideline for Infant Oral Health Care ( aapd.org/ media/ Policies_ Guidelines/ G_ InfantOralHealthCare.pdf ).

Dentists who provide care for pediatric patients are highly encouraged to adopt the age 1 visit. It is the standard of care for young patients and supported by the AAPD, American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatrics. While preventive measures are important for all patients, waiting to institute these measures at age 3 would be too late for patients at high risk of dental caries. The patient with ECC will require more dental care, incur more expense, and is likely to face a lifetime of caries. For dentistry to address this dilemma in any significant way requires intervention upon the eruption of the first primary tooth.

Just as pediatricians are the primary medical care providers for infants, dentists are the primary oral health care providers for this patient population. The role and responsibility of the dentist is to provide education and training to the parents/caregivers and, when appropriate, the child, too. The value of the child’s first dental visit, and subsequent routine appointments, is not merely the dental prophylaxis. It is the supervision and educational information the parent/caregiver and patient receives from the dental team that will provide a lifetime of value in terms of oral and overall health.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Maintaining and improving the oral health of young children. Section on oral health. Pediatrics. 2014;134:1224–1229.
American Academy of Pediatrics. Medical Home definition. Available at: https://www.aap.org/en-us/professional-resources/practice-transformation/ medicalhome/Pages/home.aspx. Accessed January 17, 2019.
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Definition of Dental Home. Available at: http://www.aapd.org/ media/policies_guidelines/d_dentalhome.pdf. Accessed January 17, 2019.
Dye BA, Thornton-Evans G, Li X, Iafolla TJ. Dental caries and sealant prevalence in children and adolescents in the United States, 2011–2012. NCHS Data Brief . 2015;191:1–8.
Nowak A, Christensen JR, Mabry TR, Townsend JA, Wells MH. Pediatric Dentistry: Infancy through Adolescence . 6th ed. Philidelphia: Saunders; 2018:137.6.
Lee JY, Bouwens TJ, Savage MF, Vann WF Jr. Examining the cost-effectiveness of early dental visits. Pediatr Dent . 2006;28:102–105.
Casamassimo PS, Hammersmith K, Gross EL, Amini H. Infant oral health: an emerging dental public health measure. Dent Clin North Am . 2018;62:235–244.
Kolstad C, Zavras A, Yoon RK. Cost-benefit analysis of the age one dental visit for the privately insured. Pediatr Dent . 2015;37:376–380.
Dye BA, Vargas CM, Lee JJ, Magder L, Tinanoff N. Assessing the relationship between children’s oral health status and that of their mothers. J Am Dent Assoc . 2011;142:173–183.
Kierce EA, Rainchuso L. Comprehensive approach to early childhood caries. Decisions in Dentistry. 2017;3(12):34–36,39.
The American Academy of Pediatrics Policy on Breastfeeding. Available at: https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/ Breastfeeding/Pages/AAP-Policy-on-Breastfeeding.aspx. Accessed January 17, 2019.

Featured image by ONDROOO/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS

From Decisions in Dentistry. February 2019;5(2):30—32,35.

Orpheus L. Triplett, DDS, is an associate professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Oral Health at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry, where he serves as director of Community Relations and Outreach. Triplett has more than 20 years experience in private practice and has also served as dental director for Christ Community Health Services, a multisite federally qualified health center in Memphis.

Larry Dormois, DDS, MS, is chair of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Oral Health at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry in Memphis. Board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, he is also a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American College of Dentists. Dormois serves as an examiner for the American Board of Dentistry and is a site visitor for the Council on Dental Accreditation with the American Dental Association. He can be reached at [email protected] .

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Brushing is should start as soon as teeth appear, which can be as early as 4 months. Babies usually get bottom teeth first, then top ones. Don’t get too worked up about when baby teeth come in.

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Find-a-Dentist

Your Baby's First Dental Visit

Your baby is hitting new milestones every day, and his or her first dental visit is another one to include in the baby book!

Your child’s first dental visit should take place after that first tooth appears , but no later than the first birthday. Why so early? As soon as your baby has teeth , he or she can get cavities. Being proactive about your child’s dental health today can help keep his or her smile healthy for life. (Need a dentist? Use our Find-A-Dentist tool to find one in your area.)

How to Prepare

Moms and dads can prepare, too. When making the appointment, it can’t hurt to ask for any necessary patient forms ahead of time. It may be quicker and easier for you to fill them out at home instead of at the office on the day of your visit.

Make a list of questions, as well. If your child is teething , sucking his or her thumb or using a pacifier too much, your dentist can offer some advice.

What to Expect During the Visit

If your child cries a little or wiggles during the exam, don’t worry. It’s normal, and your dental team understands this is a new experience for your child!

Tips for a Great Visit

Don’t schedule an appointment during naptime. Instead, pick a time your child is usually well-rested and cooperative.
Make sure your child has had a light meal and brushes their teeth before their appointment so they won’t be hungry during their visit.
Save snacks for after the visit so they aren’t on your child’s teeth during the exam.
Think of the appointment as a happy and fun experience. If your child becomes upset during the visit, work with your dentist to calm your child. You’re on the same team!

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Your child’s first dental visit

A child’s first visit to the dentist is an exciting milestone. But it’s also an important appointment that can help set them on a lifelong path toward good oral health.

The right time to schedule a first visit is within six months of their first tooth coming in, or no later than their first birthday. This timing is crucial because it’s important to:

Learn how to help your child avoid cavities and reduce health risks.

Find out who to call if there is an emergency.

Get to know your child’s dentist.

In the long run, you’ll also save money by learning how to take care of your child’s oral health and reducing the risk of more serious or expensive issues.

Getting your child ready

In advance of the visit, give them an idea of what to expect:

Go over what will happen at the appointment (more on that below). And be sure not to pass on any personal fear you may have of dentists to your child. Give them every opportunity to enjoy their first visit.

Explain why it’s important to go to the dentist and how it keeps them healthy.

Take time to answer any questions they may have.

Try to schedule a morning appointment when your child is likely to be more awake and attentive.

The day of the visit, go over what to expect one more time. Don’t share any negative experiences that you or other family members may have had with the dentist – instead, remain calm and positive! Your child will likely mirror the feelings you express about the appointment.

It can help to bring a comfort item or quiet game so they can have a little fun while they wait. It’s also an option to plan a positive reward for after the appointment.

What will happen during the visit?

During the routine exam, the dentist will check your child for cavities and review overall growth and development. The dentist will also demonstrate how to properly brush and floss your child’s teeth at home to make sure you’re as effective as possible in removing the plaque bacteria from all tooth surfaces.

To help you continue to care for your child’s oral health, you and your dentist will also:

Discuss food, drinks, and habits that can cause cavities and healthy alternatives

Review the vital role fluoride plays in strengthening tooth enamel and protecting your child’s smile

Be given helpful information for preventing accidents as your child grows

Why is it important to practice good oral health care from an early age? Because untreated oral health issues will continue to worsen over time – and more than half of children ages 6 to 8 have had a cavity in at least one baby tooth. 1

By taking your child to the dentist, you’re pointing them toward the path of good oral health. Prepare a little in advance to make sure it’s a great appointment!

1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

When Should Baby Visit the Dentist for the First Time?

Medical review policy, latest update:, when to schedule baby's first dental visit, how to choose a dentist for your child, read this next, what happens at baby's first dentist visit, tips to make your child’s dentist visit easier, how often to visit the dentist.

Based on how your toddler’s teeth look, your dentist will let you know when to make the next visit. Most experts recommend that toddlers see the dentist about every six months — as long as there are no major problems. So don’t forget to schedule your child’s second appointment on your way out the door!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd Edition, Heidi Murkoff. What to Expect the Second Year , Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Toddler Dental Care , March 2019. WhatToExpect.com, Is Your Toddler Teething? , April 2020. WhatToExpect.com, Preventing Cavities and Keeping Baby's Teeth Healthy , April 2020. WhatToExpect.com, Brushing Baby's Teeth , July 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Baby's First Tooth: 7 Facts Parents Should Know , November 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Good Oral Health Starts Early , November 2020 American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Frequently Asked Questions , 2021. American Dental Association, Taking Care of Your Child’s Smile , May 2014.

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What Is the Youngest Age to Go to the Dentist?

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It’s never too early to start thinking about your baby’s dental care. Encouraging good dental habits at a young age can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. While you can start cleaning your baby’s teeth on your own at home as soon as their teeth begin to appear, knowing when to take your child to the dentist can be less clear.

Below, you’ll learn when a child should see the dentist for the first time, how to prepare for your child’s first dentist appointment and what to expect at the office. Keep reading to discover how to take the best care of your child’s oral health.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

When Should A Child See the Dentist for the First Time
Why It Is Important for Children to Visit the Dentist Early On
How to Prepare Your Child for the Dentist
What Happens at a Baby’s First Dentist Appointment

When Should a Child See the Dentist for the First Time?

A child should have their first dentist appointment by the time they’re 1 year old , according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Once a baby starts teething, they should see the dentist within six months of their first tooth coming in. Because infants usually begin teething between 3 and 6 months old , a baby’s first dentist visit typically happens right around their first birthday.

Dentists take care of more than just teeth — a dental checkup can be beneficial to your infant’s oral health regardless of whether they have teeth yet or not. Even if your child begins teething later than the average age, you can still take them to see the dentist before they develop a tooth. If your child has not gotten a tooth by the time of their first birthday, you should go ahead and bring them in for a dentist visit anyway.

Of course, every child is different, and the answer to “When should I take my child to the dentist?” can vary. Although experts recommend taking your baby to see a pediatric dentist around their first birthday, there is no need to distress if you miss this milestone. Many parents don’t quite hit the one-year mark. It’s common for a young child’s first dentist appointment to happen at age 2, 3 or even 4.

Regardless of when you choose to schedule your child’s first dental exam, make sure you book the appointment with a reputable board certified pediatric dentist . Just like you would take your baby to a pediatrician for their primary care physician, taking your child to a pediatric dentist ensures they see a qualified professional with expertise in working with children.

Pediatric dentists are specialists who have received extra training beyond dental school to learn how to treat children and provide them with the best experience and care possible. A reliable pediatric dentist will be able to adapt to your child’s age, developmental readiness and temperament to make their first dentist visit comfortable and enjoyable.

Why Is It Important for Children to Go to the Dentist Early On?

Now that you know when you should schedule your baby’s first dentist appointment, it’s time to discuss why you should make it. Discover the importance of a child’s first dental visit with the following advantages:

1. Establish Healthy Oral Care Habits

Children should see the dentist early in their lives because it’s essential to form good oral hygiene habits from the very first tooth. Even before your baby gets their first tooth, you can introduce them to healthy oral hygiene practices by routinely wiping their gums with a damp cloth. Once you start to notice teeth popping in through your child’s gums, begin brushing their gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Those practices and regular dental visits will set your child up with healthy dental hygiene habits early on.

2. Prevent Tooth Decay

Visiting the dentist early in life can help your child avoid tooth decay and other oral health problems. About 20% of children experience untreated tooth decay , but you can help prevent this issue by taking your baby to the dentist.

3. Protect Overall Health

Taking your child to the dentist at an early age can help preserve their oral health and general health. Introducing your child to good oral hygiene early on will ensure they have healthy gums and teeth, which will allow them to chew and speak comfortably.

Teaching your children to take care of their oral health early can also help them avoid serious health issues later in life. Concerns like heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis have a strong link with oral health . Taking the initiative to schedule a dental exam for your child early can protect their oral and overall health for years to come.

4. Provide Parental Education

An early dentist visit can benefit the parents just as much as their infant. At the appointment, your dentist can show you how to clean your baby’s teeth and gums properly. They can also supply you with clear instructions on how to prevent tooth decay and other dental problems. Your dentist can address other key childhood dental concerns throughout the appointment based on your infant’s needs, as well.

In particular, your dentist can provide you with information about these topics during your baby’s first dental exam:

Any other infant dental issues you may have questions about

5. Create Positive Associations

Helping your child grow accustomed to visiting the dentist at an early age will teach them that going to the dentist’s office is nothing to worry about. Approximately 36% of people experience some anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist. But you can minimize the chances of your child developing these negative feelings by helping them create positive associations with the dentist’s office.

The memories we create in our earliest years can impact us for the rest of our lives, so you should provide your child with fond memories of going to the dentist. At your child’s initial dental exams, the dentist will not do much poking or prodding. Instead, the appointments will be used more as opportunities for your child to become comfortable at the office.

These first few visits will allow your child to familiarize themselves with the staff and build trust with them. Only once your child is comfortable, the dentist will take a look at their mouth. This positive dentist-patient relationship will help your child feel more relaxed about visiting the dentist in the future. Who knows — they may even grow to look forward to each dental appointment!

How Do I Prepare My Child for the Dentist?

While your child’s first dentist appointment may seem daunting, you can make the visit feel more manageable by preparing for it. Being well-prepared will put both you and your child at ease. To help your child’s first dentist visit go smoothly, here are tips on how to prepare your child, yourself and your dentist.

How to Prepare Your Child

The first step to preparing your child for visiting the dentist is to schedule an early morning appointment when your child is fresh and at their most alert. You also want to ensure your child feels as safe and comfortable as possible about going to the dentist’s office. The best way to help your child feel calm is to remain calm yourself. Your child will pick up on your positive view of the dentist and most likely react similarly.

Of course, preparation for visiting the dentist depends on your child’s age, and an infant will not understand as much as a toddler. But babies can sense your tone of voice and feelings, so you should seem happy and excited when talking about their dental appointment. This positivity can have a significant impact on how your child feels about seeing the dentist.

If your child is old enough to have a discussion about seeing the dentist, try to give them a basic idea of what to expect at the visit. Explain in simple terms why going to the dentist is important and how it can help them grow up strong and healthy. You could also read age-appropriate books about the dentist with them to help them relax and alleviate the fear of the unknown.

During your discussion, make sure you choose your words carefully so you don’t frighten your child unnecessarily. Avoid using words that insinuate seeing the dentist will be painful, such as “shot,” “drilling” or “hurt.” Treating a visit to the dentist like it’s not a big deal will signal to your child there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Instead, use positive, non-threatening words to describe in plain language what the dentist will do during the appointment. Use phrases that will make sense to your child, such as telling them the dentist will “brush their teeth,” “count their teeth,” “clean their mouth” and “take pictures of their teeth.” Having some idea of what to expect can help your child feel more at ease with this new experience.

How to Prepare Yourself

Even though you won’t be the one receiving the dental exam, you’ll still need to prepare yourself for your child’s first dentist visit. Discuss any concerns you may have with the dentist before the day of the appointment. Come prepared with a list of any oral health questions you want to ask the dentist so you don’t forget anything important.

If you have your own dental anxieties, be careful not to let those fears or negative associations influence your child’s view of the dentist. Because children can quickly pick up on their parent’s anxieties and become worried themselves, you can provide moral support by appearing relaxed and calm throughout the appointment.

How to Prepare the Dentist

For your child’s first dentist visit, you will need to provide the dentist with a record of your child’s health history to go over before the appointment. You will also want to let the dentist know if your child tends to be anxious, fearful, stubborn or defiant in certain situations. Depending on your child’s age, you may also alert the dentist of any behavioral or temperamental issues that may occur.

In general, these are the main problems linked with children’s ages:

Infants: Many babies under 1 year old are highly attached to their parents and do not react well to being removed from their parent’s side for the dental exam. To alleviate this, most infants will stay sitting on their parents’ lap during the dental exam.
Toddlers: By the time they reach 3 years, most children can cope with being away from their parents for a brief time. But they may not deal well with being separated for the entire duration of a dental procedure like getting a cavity filled. Therefore, we always allow (and encourage) parents to be in the room during the cleaning and exam.
Four-year-olds: Most children are able to be apart from their parents for dental exams and treatment procedures by the time they’re 4 years old. However, it is still important for parents to be present so they can listen to any feedback from the dental team.

What Happens at a Baby’s First Dentist Appointment?

Knowing what to expect at your baby’s first dentist appointment can help you be better prepared. The goal of a first dentist visit is mainly to introduce your child to the office and get them comfortable with the idea of dentistry. The appointment will take less than an hour and show your child the dentist’s office is a safe place to visit .

At Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, a typical first dentist appointment includes:

A tour: To get started, the dentist will show your child the dentist’s chair and the dental tools used for a checkup. They’ll briefly explain what happens when they look at your child’s mouth and teeth. For children who are old enough to understand, having a conversation about the exam and meeting the staff helps them feel calmer and safer. If your child is an infant, a short tour is still beneficial for helping parents to become familiar with the office and staff.
An exam: After the tour, the dentist will begin the exam portion of the visit. Children under 2 years of age will usually sit in their parent’s lap in the dentist’s chair to make them feel more comfortable. During the exam, the dentist will count and assess each tooth along with your child’s gums, bite and jaw.
A thorough cleaning: Each exam includes a routine cleaning, which may be very quick for babies with only a few teeth. For your child’s first visit, the dentist will use a regular toothbrush to complete the cleaning. Using a toothbrush instead of dental tools creates an opportunity to demonstrate proper at-home brushing techniques. Older children who can handle sitting in the dentist’s chair by themselves will receive a cleaning with a soft rubber polishing brush. That tool provides delicate teeth with a gentle, deep clean.
A fluoride treatment: The dentist might apply a fluoride treatment to help protect your child’s enamel and prevent cavities. Although the treatment used to be applied by placing Styrofoam trays filled with fluoride into patients’ mouths, dentists now simply paint a drop or two of a fluoride varnish treatment onto patients’ teeth with a brush. This method is far more comfortable than the old one, takes mere seconds and allows your child to eat or drink immediately following their appointment.

Schedule Your Child’s First Dentist Appointment With Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

If you’re looking for a friendly, caring dentist office to take your child to, schedule an appointment with Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. At Sprout, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality pediatric dental care in a warm and welcoming environment that kids will actually look forward to visiting. We even offer the option of watching a movie during dental exams and cleanings to help put children at ease.

Along with a thorough exam and cleaning, the Sprout team will offer oral hygiene tips like how to brush your baby’s teeth so you can ensure your child stays healthy in between visits. Our dental team loves children and their families and looks forward to becoming your regular pediatric dental choice. No referrals are needed for children to visit our office, so you can book your appointment today!

Dr. Dana grew up in Portland and went to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA for dental school. She then moved to Anchorage, AK for her residency in Pediatric Dentistry . Dr. Dana takes a holistic approach to pediatric dentistry & is able to use her own parenting experience to sympathize and understand each family’s unique dynamic.

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Brush Up on Oral Health

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Promoting the Age 1 Dental Visit

Dentist and assistant checking child's teeth.

This Brush Up on Oral Health tip sheet discusses the importance of the age 1 dental visit. It also offers tips to help Head Start staff explain to parents what happens during the dental visit.

Importance of the Dental Visit

Some parents believe that because primary (baby) teeth are going to “fall out anyway” they do not need to take care of them. However, primary teeth are important to a child’s growth and development. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Dental Association all recommend that children have their first dental visit by age 1. A state’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) dental fees and payment policies must line up with the state’s pediatric dental periodicity schedule. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry maintains a webpage with the dental periodicity schedule for each state.

The age 1 dental visit is a foundation for building a lifetime of good oral health. By beginning visits early, children learn that dental visits are usually not associated with pain or fear of the oral health professional. The visit is also an important opportunity to learn if a child is at high risk for developing tooth decay. During the visit, the oral health professional can talk to parents about steps to reduce their child’s risk for decay.

Explaining to Parents What Happens During the Dental Visit

Closeup of baby having their teeth flossed.

Describes what they will do during the visit and asks the parents if they have any questions. Parents should be encouraged to ask questions about their child’s oral health and their own oral health.
Checks the child’s mouth and teeth. Using a small mirror, the oral health professional checks the child’s lips, cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth for any problems and the teeth for signs of tooth decay.
Checks the child’s bite and their jaw’s growth. The child’s teeth and jaw will be checked to make sure that they are developing in the right way. The oral health professional may also describe what to expect for the child’s oral development during the next few months.
Provides preventive care. The oral health professional may provide care to prevent tooth decay. This care may include cleaning the child’s teeth with a toothbrush and applying fluoride varnish. Fluoride varnish is a liquid that is painted onto children’s teeth to prevent tooth decay and to repair early stages of tooth decay. This can be done up to four times a year depending on the child’s risk for developing tooth decay.
Informs parents about healthy oral hygiene habits. Because home care is a vital part of good oral health, parents may be shown how to brush their child’s teeth and how much fluoride toothpaste to use. The oral health professional may also teach parents how and when to start flossing the child’s teeth. Other topics that may be discussed with parents include the timing of the next dental visit and setting goals to promote their child’s oral health. For example, a goal may be brushing their child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day instead of once a day.
Talks about foods, drinks, and habits that can cause oral problems. The oral health professional may ask questions about feeding practices and the use of sippy cups. Answers to these questions help determine if the child is at high or low risk for developing tooth decay. Parents may also be asked about their child’s thumb sucking, use of pacifiers, and other habits that may cause oral problems.
Offers tips on how to prevent oral injuries. Injuries to the head, face, and mouth are common in young children, especially when they are learning to walk and climb. The oral health professional may offer tips on how to prevent oral injuries and what to do if an injury occurs.

Even if a child is fearful or cannot cooperate during the dental visit, the visit is still helpful. The child may enjoy riding up and down in the dental chair or seeing how dental tools work, such as the air, water, and suction hoses, and mouth mirror. Often, the oral health professional can get a quick look into the child’s mouth to see if there are any problems.

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National Centers: Health, Behavioral Health, and Safety

Audience: Teachers and Caregivers

Series: Brush Up on Oral Health (BUOH)

Last Updated: April 26, 2023

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What’s the Right Age for a Child’s First Dentist Visit?

by University General Dentists Team Member | May 7, 2019 | Dentistry , Oral Health , Pediatric Dentistry

Young boy meeting with his knoxville dentist for the first time

Deciding the right time for a child’s first dentist visit can be tricky. There’s a vast amount of information online with, often, conflicting advice. Some dentists will advise that a child’s first dentist visit should come when all their baby teeth have come in around the age of 2 or 3, and still others will advise only to go in there this early if your child is experiencing issues with their teeth. We dug into the recommendations of countless general dentistry and pediatric dentists alike to get to the bottom of this intriguing question.

Child’s First Dentist Visit

Pediatric dentists tend to preach the “early and often” mantra when it comes to taking your child to the dentist for the first time. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association recommends taking your child to the dentist on their first birthday. Some children’s health practitioners say that it’s okay to wait until their second birthday if they have graduated from a bottle to a cup. This first dentist visit is more about allowing your little one to become familiar with the process and comfortable with visiting the dentist. This comfort with the dentist is established through exposure.

Benefits of Early Dental Visits

Some children don’t get their first tooth in their first year, and if this is your child, then you can delay their first dental visit until it does appear. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) , the average age of a child’s first dental visit is 2.6 years old. Visiting the dentist early in life helps ensure baby or primary teeth stay in place until they fall out naturally. This will not only set your child up for lifelong oral health but ensure that their bite develops at the proper rate and promotes a confident smile. Early visits to the dentist can also help in spotting and circumventing possible issues with spacing, the gums, or the alignment of your child’s teeth that might affect the emergence of an adult tooth or detect future problems early.

Waiting on First Dentist Visit

Many parents don’t receive guidance from their pediatrician, primary care physician, or general dentist regarding dental care for extremely young children. It’s not uncommon for parents to wait until the age of 4 or 5 before they go on their first dentist visit. In fact, a recent survey showed that 17% of parents waited until their child was older than four to go to the dentist. Dentists generally advise against waiting this long, as the risk of dental issues for your child begins as soon as their first tooth arrives. Waiting until children are approaching Kindergarten means that their teeth are more prone to cavities caused by plaque.

Knoxville Pediatric Dentistry & General Dentistry

Obviously, we care deeply about our children and their health. Just like so many health-related issues, everyone is different, and thus no traditional practice dictates when exactly your child should have their first dentist visit. It’s essential, however, not to delay starting your child on the right path to healthy habits. It could be younger than 1, or it could be two years old. By incorporating dental checkups and examinations early in life, parents can also make future trips much less stressful for everyone involved. Whether you have a pediatric dentist in your city or not, most general dentistry offices will see young children. Contact your local dentist to ask them for guidance about when your child should have their first dentist visit or with oral health questions regarding your child.

At University General Dentists, we offer dental care to patients of all ages. Call us today to schedule your appointment at one of our two Knoxville, TN, locations–University of Tennessee Medical Center 865-305-9440 and West Knoxville at 865-500-5700 .

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Canadian dentists' views on the first dental visit for children

Hamideh alai-towfigh.

1 Department of Preventive Dental Science, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Robert J. Schroth

2 Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

3 Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health and Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

4 Shared Health Inc., Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Victor H. K. Lee

Olubukola olatosi.

5 Department of Oral Biology, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Associated Data

The dataset used and analyzed during this study was provided by the Canadian Dental Association, who own the data. Requests to access the datasets should be directed at: cda-adc@noitpecer .

Introduction

Early dental visits set children on an upward trajectory, toward a lifetime of optimal oral health. The purpose of this study was to analyze data from a survey of Canadian dentists to determine their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding first dental visits.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) surveyed general and pediatric dentists regarding the timing of the first dental visit. Demographic and practice information was collected. Analyses included descriptive analyses, bivariate analyses, and multiple logistic regression with forward stepwise selection. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Overall, 3,232 dentists participated. The majority were male (58.5%), general dentists (96.6%), in non-metropolitan areas (50.5%), and practiced for 20.6 ± 12.8 years. The mean age recommended for first visits was 20.4 ± 10.8 months. Only 45.4% of dentists recommended a first visit ≤ 12 months. A majority (59.5%) knew that the correct age recommended for first visits was no later than 12 months. Most dentists who had seen a patient ≤ 12 months before did not typically do so (82.3%). General dentists were 61% less likely to recommend first visits by 12 months (OR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.91). Dentists in Central Canada (OR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.44, 2.32); dentists who typically saw patients ≤ 12 months (OR = 3.41; 95% CI: 2.41, 4.83); those who echoed the importance of visits by 12 months (OR = 19.3; 95% CI: 8.2, 45.71); dentists with staff that encouraged infant/toddler care (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.34, 2.31); and those who knew official North American recommendations for first visits (OR = 5.28; 95% CI: 4.13, 6.76) were all more likely to recommend first visits by 12 months.

Conclusions

A majority of Canadian dentists did not recommend first visits by 12 months of age, despite it being the CDA's official position. Provider characteristics can influence the age that is recommended for first visits. Findings from this study may inform educational campaigns on early childhood oral health targeted toward dentists.

Early childhood caries (ECC) is a highly prevalent public health issue worldwide. Approximately 24% of children younger than 36 months and 57% of children between the ages of 3–6 years suffer from ECC [ 1 ]. The prevalence of ECC is as high as 90% in some parts of Canada [ 2 ]. If left untreated, ECC can negatively impact a child's overall well-being by causing pain, behavioral problems, difficulties eating, speech problems, impediments in learning, and a decrease in oral health-related quality of life [ 3 ]. Preventive approaches are preferred over the surgical treatment of disease in children [ 4 ]. However, dental surgery to treat severe ECC is known as the most common surgical procedure in preschool children at most Canadian pediatric and community hospitals [ 5 ].

Early first dental visits may be protective against ECC, as dentists can identify high-risk children before significant problems arise [ 4 , 6 , 7 ]. Current established professional organizations recommend a first visit no later than 12 months of age [ 5 ]. Unfortunately, early first dental visits are atypical [ 8 , 9 ]. A recent study reported that <1% of healthy, urban, Canadian children visit the dentist by age one, and about 2% of children visited the dentist by age two [ 5 , 9 ]. Establishing a dental home by age one is encouraged and has proven to be effective [ 5 , 8 , 10 ]. This can help parents or caregivers develop proper oral health habits early in their child's life, rather than trying to change unhealthy habits later on [ 11 ]. Early preventive dental care can reduce the need for future restorative appointments and visits to the emergency room, while also decreasing associated costs [ 9 , 10 , 12 ].

Earlier appointments may be more common in certain regions of Canada where there have been campaigns promoting early visits [ 13 ]. These first dental visits set children on an upward trajectory, toward a lifetime of optimal oral health. The concept may seem new to some, but in 1986, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) first published “Infant Oral Health Guidelines” and recommended an oral examination and assessment within six months of the eruption of the first tooth and no later than 12 months of age [ 6 ]. This recommendation is 35 years old, but it is likely not known by all practicing dentists. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) also endorses a first visit by 12 months of age [ 5 ].

No national data has been published on the views and attitudes of Canadian dentists on early childhood dental visits. This is information is only available for specific regions. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of dentists in Canada regarding the timing of the first dental visit and the importance of developing a positive relationship between the child, family, and dental team.

In 2013, the CDA undertook a national survey of dentists. The survey covered first dental visits, as this was one of two priority areas identified by the CDA's Access to Care Working Group. General and pediatric dentists received email invitations to complete an electronic survey, which collected demographic and practice information. The survey covered several topics, including dentists' awareness and knowledge of infant and toddler dental care, timing of the first dental visit, knowledge of professional recommendations on first dental visits, and views on ECC.

The online survey was administered by Navigator Ltd., which was contracted by the CDA. The survey was e-mailed on January 2013 to 14,747 general and pediatric dentists. To increase the number of respondents, two follow-up emails were sent. Specific objectives of the survey were to (1) determine the average recommended age for a first dental visit by Canadian dentists, (2) determine which factors and provider characteristics were associated with earlier recommended first dental visits, and (3) inform the CDA's advocacy efforts to promote young children's oral health.

The CDA provided approval for the secondary analysis of the survey data. Ethics approval was also obtained from the University of Manitoba's Health Research Ethics Board. The key outcome variable was the age dentists recommended for a first dental visit, and the proportion who recommended first visit ≤ 12 months. Several other variables of interest were also considered, including gender, year of graduation, type of dentist, and type of practice. The key outcome was dichotomized into those who recommended a first visit ≤ 12 months of age, and those recommending first visits >12 months of age. Provinces and territories were grouped into Western (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Saskatchewan, Yukon,); Central (Ontario, Quebec); and Eastern Canada (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island). Practice location was coded as being in a census metropolitan or non-census metropolitan area (census metropolitan defined as a total population of ≥100,000, with ≥50,000 in the urban core; non-census metropolitan areas are smaller urban areas with a population <100,000). The types of practice were recoded as solo, group, or non-private practices.

Data were analyzed using Number Cruncher Statistical Software (Version 20.0.2; Kaysville, Utah). Descriptive statistics [means, standard deviations (SD), and frequencies] were calculated. Data was analyzed comparing general dentists vs. pediatric dentists and the recommendation of first dental visit ≤ 12 months vs. >12 months. Relationships between participant characteristics and age of first visit recommended by dentists were evaluated by Chi-square for categorical variables, and t -tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA) for continuous variables. Correlation models were used to examine the dependent variables of number of years in practice and age that dentists recommend for first visit. Multiple logistic regression with forward stepwise selection was used for the key outcome of recommending first visits by 12 months of age. A p -value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.

A total of 3,232 dentists participated in the study (response rate of 21.9%). General characteristics are highlighted in Table 1 . A majority of participants were male (58.5%), general dentists (96.6%), working in group private practices (51.7%), living in non-census metropolitan areas (50.5%), and were from Ontario (42.6%). Dentists practiced for an average of 20.6 ± 12.8 years.

Participant characteristics.

Table 2 highlights participants' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding first dental visits. Approximately 45.2% of respondents actually recommended a first visit by 12 months of age. About 60% of respondents believed that dental organizations recommended first visits as soon as the first primary tooth erupts; 64.8% of dentists were aware of the CDA's position on first dental visits. While a majority of participants (74.2%) had seen a patient under 12 months of age before, this was atypical, with dentists frequently seeing older children for the first time (82.3%). Those that did not typically see children under 12 months often referred younger children to colleagues (55.3%). The majority (76.0%) of respondents felt that parents did not understand the importance of a child's first visit to a dentist, and only 14% felt that parents or caregivers were open to bringing their infant and/or toddler to the dentist before 12 months of age.

Participants' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about the first dental visit.

A majority of dentists agreed (50.9%) or somewhat agreed (22.5%) that it is important for a child to receive their first dental examination within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth, or by 12 months of age. Furthermore, most dentists expressed confidence in their ability to perform dental examinations on infants and toddlers. A third of dentists (33.7%) agreed or somewhat agreed that they would require additional training before they felt comfortable treating infants and toddlers.

The three most common reasons given by dentists for not seeing patients ≤ 12 months of age were that they believed that parents did not see it as a priority (34.6%), they were uncomfortable seeing difficult children (13.6%), and they felt it was not necessary to see children of that age range (12.5%; Figure 1 ). The three most common reasons given by dentists for parents or caregivers not bringing their child to the dentist within the first year of life were that they believed that parents did not think it was necessary (65.1%), they believed that parents lacked education and awareness (61.7%), and they believed that parents did not see it as a priority for their child (38%; Figure 2 ).

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Reasons participating dentists gave for not seeing patients ≤ 12 months of age.

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Reasons dentists gave as to why parents or caregivers did not bring infants/toddlers for early first visits.

Table 3 highlights respondent characteristics, as they relate to visit recommendations (i.e., ≤ 12 months or >12 months) and the mean recommended age for first visits. The Northwest Territories (100%), Manitoba (62.5%), New Brunswick (61.8%), and British Columbia (60.8%) had the highest percentages of dentists recommending the correct age for first visits ( p < 0.0001). These regions also had the lowest mean recommended ages for first visits ( p < 0.0001).

Association between respondent characteristics and recommended age of first visit.

Female dentists were significantly more likely to recommend first visits ≤ 12 months of age than their male colleagues (56.2% vs. 37.4%, p < 0.0001; Table 3 ). The mean ages for first visits recommended by female dentists were also significantly lower than their male colleagues (18.0 ± 10 months vs. 22.2 ± 10.9 months, p < 0.0001). Dentists who recommended a first visit by 12 months of age practiced for significantly fewer years than those who recommended a first visit past 12 months (16.2 ± 12.5 vs. 24.2 ± 11.9, p < 0.0001). A greater proportion of pediatric dentists (86.4%), compared to general dentists (43.8%) recommended a first visit ≤ 12 months of age ( p < 0.0001). Pediatric dentists tended to recommend first visits earlier on, while general dentists provided later suggestions (12.6 ± 5.2 months vs. 20.7 ± 10.8, p < 0.0001). The mean ages for first visits recommended by general dentists in non-private practices (e.g., community-, hospital-, or university-based; 15.7 ± 9.0) were closer to the correct age, than those suggestions given by dentists in solo (21.7 ± 10.9) or group practices (20.0 ± 10.7, p < 0.0001).

Table 4 reports on respondents' recommendations of first dental visits in relation to dentists' knowledge, attitudes, behaviors. Dentists were dichotomized as to whether they were recommending a first visit ≤ 12 months of age or >12 months. Overall, 63.8% of dentists who knew the age that dental organizations in North America recommended for first visits utilized those recommendations in practice themselves. Dentists who typically saw patients <12 months (84%) were more likely to recommend first visits ≤ 12 months over those that did not typically see patients of that age range (37.4%; p < 0.0001). Dentists who used “knee-to-knee positioning” were also more likely to recommend visits ≤ 12 months over those that did not use the technique (54.8% vs. 28.2%, p < 0.0001). The majority of dentists who agreed it was important for a child to receive their first dental examination within the first 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth, or by 1 year of age (76.9%), tended to recommended visits ≤ 12 months for first visit ( p < 0.0001).

Associations between knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, mean age recommended, and actual recommendations by 12 months of age.

Participants who recommended visits ≤ 12 months reported more confidence in their ability to perform exams on infants and toddler than those who recommend first visit >12 months, (55.8% vs. 44.2%, p < 0.0001; and 50.8% vs. 49.2%, p < 0.0001, respectively). The dentists who recommended first visits ≤ 12 months agreed that their front staff actively encouraged infant and toddler dental care (67.2%), and were comfortable dealing with infant and toddlers (57.1%). More of the dentists who recommended first visits ≤ 12 months were aware of CDA's position on first dental visits compared to those who recommended first visit >12 months (54.6 vs. 45.4%, p < 0.0001).

When comparing dentist types with other participant characteristics, more pediatric dentists practiced in census metropolitan areas compared to general dentists (87.2 vs. 48.1%, p < 0.0001) ( Table 5 ). Pediatric dentists had also practiced for a longer amount of time than general dentists (23.2 ± 11.7 years vs. 20.6 ± 12.8, p < 0.0001). They were more likely to be in non-private practices, such as university- or hospital-based practices, than general dentists (18% vs. 6%, p < 0.0001). Pediatric dentists recommended first dental visits closer to the correct age (in months) compared to general dentists (12.6 ± 5.2 vs. 20.5 ± 10.8, p < 0.0001). More pediatric dentists knew the correct age that dental organizations were recommending for first visits compared to general dentists (81.5% vs. 58.7%, p < 0.0001). Compared to general dentists, pediatric dentists typically saw more patients under 12 months (66.7 vs. 16%, p < 0.0001), used “knee-to- knee positioning” more often (87 vs. 60.1%, p < 0.0001), and were more confident in seeing infants (96.6 vs. 53.4%, p < 0.0001). Pediatric dentists' staff were also extremely comfortable in dealing with infants and toddlers compared to the staff of general dentists (92.1 vs. 37.8%, p < 0.0001).

Association between participant characteristics and type of dentist.

Variables found to be significantly associated with recommending first visits ≤ 12 months of age were grouped into four different themes, and were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. The four themed models included dentists' characteristics, behaviors, barriers encountered, and awareness of dental organizations' position on the first visit. The first model (dentists' characteristics; data not shown) included five covariates, and revealed that years in practice ( p < 0.0001), location in Central Canada ( p < 0.0001), female gender ( p < 0.0001), type of dentist/pediatric dentists ( p < 0.0001), and working in solo private practices ( p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with recommendations of first visits by 12 months.

The second model (dentists' behaviors; data not shown) included 12 variables. Nine out of the 12 variables were significantly associated with recommendations of first visits by 12 months. This included if dentists typically saw patients ≤ 12 months; if they promoted early visits; used “knee-to-knee positioning”; felt that parents understood the importance of a child's first visit; if dentists felt it was important for a child to receive their first dental examination within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth, or by age one; if they felt confident to perform infant and/or toddler examinations; if staff encouraged infant and toddler dental care ( p < 0.0001); and if staff felt comfortable dealing with infants and/or toddlers ( p < 0.01).

The third model (barriers encountered; data not shown) included nine variables. The variables that were significantly associated with recommendations of first visits by 12 months included if the dentist did not think it was necessary to see a child by 1 year of age ( p < 0.0001), if dentists did not know not know how to treat children ( p < 0.05), if dentists were never taught how to treat children ( p < 0.05), if dentists were too busy to treat children ( p < 0.05), if dentists were uncomfortable seeing uncooperative children ( p < 0.0001), and if dentists thought that few parents saw the first visit as a priority ( p < 0.0001).

The fourth model (awareness of recommendations by dental organizations; data not shown) included two variables. The age dentists believed North American dental organizations recommended for first visits, and awareness of the CDA's position on first dental visits were both significantly associated with recommendations of first visits by 12 months ( p < 0.001).

One final multiple logistic regression model was constructed using forward selection ( Table 6 ). This included those variables that were significant in exploratory themes one (dentists' characteristics), two (dentists' behaviors), and four (awareness of recommendations), along with the top three significant barriers from the third theme. Results revealed that those who practiced in Central Canada were 1.83 (95% CI: 1.44, 2.32) times more likely to recommend first visits by age one than those located in Western Canada. The odds ratio of general dentists recommending first visit by 12 months was reduced by 61% compared to pediatric dentists (95% CI: 0.16, 0.91). Dentists who typically saw a patient ≤ 12 months were 3.41 times more likely to recommend first visits by 12 months (95% CI: 2.41, 4.83). Participants who felt it was important to have first dental visits within 6 months of eruption of the first tooth, or by age one, were 19.3 times more likely to recommend first visits by 12 months of age (95% CI: 8.2, 45.71). If their staff actively encouraged infant and toddler dental care, dentists were 1.76 times more likely to recommend first visit by 12 months (95% CI: 1.34, 2.31). Participants who correctly knew what age dental organizations in North America recommended first visit were 5.28 times more likely to recommend first visit by 12 months (95% CI: 4.13, 6.76).

Multi-predictor regression model with participant characteristics, behaviors, and awareness with and without barriers for recommending first visits ≤ 12 months.

Reference = a Western Canada, b Female, c Pediatric dentist, d solo private practice, e no.

The second part of the final analyses also excluded barrier variables from the forward regression model ( Table 6 ). When barrier variables were excluded, gender and group private practice became significant ( p < 0.05). All other significant variables remained the same as in the analyses that included the barrier variables.

Dental organizations have been promoting first visits by age one for many years. As mentioned above, the first official North American policy statement on the concept of dental homes and first visits within the first year of life was published 35 years ago. There has been limited research regarding dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on the first visit [ 7 ]. This study attempted to address this deficiency, and investigated Canadian dentists' views on the timing of a child's first dental visit, which is an important milestone that often occurs well beyond the recommended age of ≤ 12 months.

Research shows that there are benefits of early visits with the establishment of dental homes by meeting and identifying high-risk patients, and providing early preventive care [ 14 ]. There is growing recognition for the need to shift from rehabilitative treatments to oral health management and primary prevention, which can be best started with infants at the time of the eruption of the first tooth [ 6 ]. The CDA developed the “First Visit, First Tooth” campaign to raise public awareness and to educate dentists [ 15 ]. While all provincial dental associations follow the CDA's position on the timing of first dental visits, Manitoba and Prince Edward Island are the only two provinces that promote the Free First Visit (FFV) [ 16 , 17 ]. The Manitoba Dental Association (MDA) started the FFV program in 2010 to promote access to care, and to encourage the idea of a dental visit within the first year of life [ 17 ].

When dentists were asked what age their dental organizations recommended patients to come for their first visit, most responded as soon as the first primary tooth erupts. However, when surveyed, dentists recommended a higher age for first visits. There is clearly a disconnect between the knowledge that dentists have with regard to the age of first visits and the age that they openly recommended. These findings are consistent with other studies [ 7 , 8 , 17 – 25 ]. Guidelines can provide information, but they do not always cause behaviors to change [ 21 ]. Earlier visit recommendations are preparing dentists to see children before their first birthday. It is encouraging that most practitioners in this study have seen children ≤ 12 months, but in reality, <20% of the dentists surveyed see one regularly.

With the introduction of the FFV in Manitoba, dentists appeared to be more aware of the recommended timing of first dental visits and early childhood oral health [ 21 ]. A study conducted in 2008 found that Manitoba dentists recommended a mean age of 24.8 ± 10.9 months for first visits. Following the introduction of the FFV program, which was launched by the MDA in 2010, a subsequent study found that dentists had begun recommending a younger age for first visits (mean 18.1 ± 10.0 months) [ 17 ]. A survey from 2013 showed that Manitoba dentists were recommending a mean age of 17.2 ± 10.6 months for first visits. The mean age may have dropped due to the promotion of earlier visits by the MDA, and the greater awareness of Manitoba dentists as a result.

A high number of Manitoba dentists have expressed beliefs that parents do not see the first visit as a priority, and that there is little demand for early visits [ 21 ]. This is a significant barrier, as parents need to be educated, informed, and engaged in their children's oral health. The first step for parents or caregivers should be to bring their child to the dentist within the first year of life [ 20 , 21 ]. When parents acquire more education about the first visit, there should be an increase in requests for first visits, and dentists will have greater opportunities to provide services. Early childhood education programs can also improve dental care use, especially the use of preventive dental services among infants and toddlers at risk for dental disease [ 26 ]. While parental education about child's first dental visit is important, it is also crucial to take a closer look at other social determinants of health that may be at play. Reasons such as lack of transportation, financial constraints, having a sick child may not make dental visit a priority unless there is pain or infection. These underlying factors need to be addressed [ 27 ].

In this study, there were some deterrents that were identified for dentists not seeing infants and toddlers in their practice. Participants reported that they were uncomfortable examining children who were uncooperative and crying. Some felt that a first visit by 12 months was not necessary, which is a sentiment that is consistent with other studies [ 8 , 17 , 28 , 29 ]. Dentists have requested additional training for seeing infants in the form of continuing education events, educational material and hands-on training [ 8 , 21 ]. Research suggests that strategies such as professional education, journal articles, and advertising can help increase awareness for both providers and parents [ 21 ].

Female dentists recommended younger ages for first visits when compared to their male colleagues. This is consistent with prior research, where female clinicians have been more inclined to recommend first visits within the first year of life [ 21 , 28 ]. Dentists who recommended first visits ≤ 12 months practiced for a shorter amount of time than dentist who recommended first visits >12 months. This suggests that the longer dentists practiced, the greater the age that was recommended for first visits to patients. This finding may be because dentists who have practiced for a shorter length of time may also have recently graduated from school and the importance of a child's first dental visit may now be part of the current curriculum. These findings are also consistent with previous studies [ 8 , 19 , 20 , 28 ]. This study also showed that more dentists in non-private practices recommended a visit within the first year of life than those in solo or group practices. Greater awareness of the timing of first dental visits because of academic affiliations for non-private dentists working in hospital- or university-based settings could explain these results.

Due to the nature of their training, Canadian pediatric dentists in this study recommended earlier ages for first visits. Pediatric dentists knew the correct age to recommend first visits, used the “knee-to-knee positioning” to examine infants and toddlers, and their staff were more comfortable dealing with younger populations. These findings are characteristic of this group of professionals [ 7 , 17 ]. A dental team should be trained in behavior management techniques since the staff is an extension of the dentist and are an integral part of in the line of communication with the child. A collaborative approach helps ensure that both the patient and the parent have a positive dental experience. All dental team members are encouraged to expand their skills and knowledge through dental literature, video presentations, and continuing education courses [ 30 ].

Key predictors for practitioners that recommended first visits within the first year of life included working in Central Canada, being female, being a pediatric dentist, working in solo private practices, and typically seeing patients ≤ 12 months. Dentists working in Central Canada may be more knowledgeable in infant oral health probably because these provinces are larger, have more pediatric dentists and more access to current and continuous dental education. Other predictors included promotion of early visits by practitioners, knowing the importance of first visits within the first year of life, belief that first visits are necessary, knowing the age dental organizations recommend, and having front office staff that encourage infant and toddler dental care. Dentists who use the “knee-to-knee positioning” technique, which is the recommended method of examining infants and toddlers, have tended to examine younger patient populations before their first birthday. Dentists who use ‘knee-to-knee' technique may also have had training in infant oral health care and this may account for their recommendation of a first visit within the first year of life [ 31 , 32 ].

In the latter part of our last model, gender became a significant measure only when barriers were removed. These findings suggest important restrictions for male dentists with regard to early childhood visits. It is noted that the number of male respondents was greater than the number of female respondents in the original data set, and that trends in gender diversity in past dental graduation classes may also serve as a compounding factor. Group private practice also became significant measure in the last model. Practitioners in these types of practices may also have significant barriers in examining infants, and may rely on other providers in their practice to see children that come in.

Many, but not all, dental professional programs teach the recommended age for a first dental visit. One way to get through to dentists, especially general dentists, is to change what we teach. We must ensure that dental schools teach infant oral health, adhere to national guidelines, remove current barriers to education, and provide students with opportunities to see infants and toddlers in their undergraduate learning years [ 7 , 21 , 22 , 28 , 33 ]. This can be achieved through specialty clinics and community-based clinics, or by having dental students practice first visits on an infant of a volunteer parent.

First visits are also restricted by the limited number of pediatric dentists in Canada. As a majority of dental practitioners are general dentists, they will need to develop their skills in order to help fulfill the CDA's vision and position on the timing of the first dental visit. The CDA should consider targeting its educational campaigns to dentists in Eastern and Western Canada, male dentists, general dentists, and those in group private practices to better recommendations for dental visit within the first year of life. Future research will help determine the impact of campaigns for the first dental visits, and show whether this leads to a reduction in ECC and rates of dental surgery [ 17 ].

This study is not without limitations. While 3,232 dentists participated, the response rate was modest. Additionally, recall and response bias is possible. It is likely that those responding to the survey were most interested in the topic, and were already seeing younger patients. Thus, our findings may not be entirely representative of the average Canadian dentist. Also, the CDA survey was conducted in 2013 and this may not reflect the current opinion of Canadian dentists on child's first dental visit. Follow-up surveys to assess and compare current practices, attitudes, opinions and recommendations of Canadian dentists on a child's first dental visit are recommended. Strengths of this study include the fact that it is the first national survey of CDA members regarding timing of first dental visit, and there was a relatively large sample size.

More than half of all dentists that participated in this survey did not recommend first dental visits by 12 months of age, even though this is the CDA's official position. Significant associations for recommendations of early first visits were seen for Central Canadian dentists, female dentists, pediatric dentists, and those working in solo private practices. Findings from this study can guide targeted educational campaigns for practicing dentists and those in training. This study serves as a baseline for future changes in dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on first dental visits, and will hopefully be instrumental in children being seen at an earlier age.

Data availability statement

Ethics statement.

The studies involving human participants were reviewed and approved by University of Manitoba Health Research Ethics Board. The patients/participants provided their written informed consent to participate in this study.

Author contributions

HA-T led the analysis, interpretation of the data, and was a major contributor in writing the manuscript. RS created the study protocol, helped analyze and interpret data, and was a major contributor in writing the manuscript. RH, VL, and OO were significant contributors in the writing of the manuscript. All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version.

Operating funds to support data analyses reported in this study were provided by the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry Endowment Fund, University of Manitoba. Partial publication charges were provided by the Department of Preventive Dental Science, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, University of Manitoba.

Conflict of interest

Author RS was employed by Shared Health Inc. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher's note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Acknowledgments

The research team would like to acknowledge the Canadian Dental Association for providing the databased necessary to undertake this study's analyses. At the time of this study, RS held a Canadian Institutes of Health Research Embedded Clinician Researcher salary award.

First dental visit of a child

Affiliation.

1 Department of Orthodontics, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, Chennai-600 095, India. [email protected]
PMID: 19075451

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the common chief complaints of the Indian children and the average age group at which they report for in their first dental visit.

Materials and methods: A retrospective study was carried out using the case records of 716 children who reported to the postgraduate section of Department of Pediatric dentistry, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College, Chennai, in 2007. The age groups of the children were divided into three categories 0-3 years, 3-6 years and 6-12 years. The various chief complaints were categorised as follows, Orientation to prevention, Routine visit, Deposits/Discoloration, Habits, Unerupted/Missing or Extra Tooth, Pain, Dental caries, Malocclusion, Trauma, others. The average age group and most common complaint at the first dental visit was assessed. A prospective study was done in January 2008, were 215 children were screened. The assessment was made as explained above.

Results: Retrospective study Maximum number of children who reported for their first dental visit was between 6-12 years (59.08%). Most common chief complaint for the visit was pain (42.04%). Second common complaint being dental caries (28.49%). Prospective study Maximum number of children who reported for their first dental visit was between 6-12 years (69.77%). Most common chief complaint was dental caries (34.88%). Second common complaint being pain (27.91%).

Conclusion: Children report for the first dental visit most commonly only after 6 years and for complaints like pain and dental caries. Orientation to prevention is not considered and preventive dentistry is yet to reach the common population in India.

Age Distribution
Child, Preschool
Dental Care / statistics & numerical data*
Dental Care for Children / statistics & numerical data*
Dental Caries / therapy*
Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
Preventive Dentistry / statistics & numerical data
Retrospective Studies
Toothache / therapy*

child whose first dental visit was at age one.40 In 2014, Nowak et al. examined billing data from 20 corporate treatment centers. Among 40,000 children, if the first dental visit was delayed until age four, there were 3.6 more dental proce-dures performed on average than if the first dental visit was before age four.41 This amounted to ...

Babies should see a dentist by age 1 or within six months after the first appearance of their first tooth, whichever comes first. Early and regular dental care is important to your baby's oral ...

The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development.

Tips for parents on a great dental visit. 8. Dental Care for School-Age Children & Sealants A count down to dental health: Five steps to a cavity-free child. Sealants: The invisible protector and the best-kept secret in the dental office. 9. Dental Care for the Teenager Why teens may get their first cavity at the same time they get a driver's ...

Age of the child for first dental visit was male: 85.7% at 9 years and female: 75.00% at 4 years. Majority of children who visited the dentist were age 7 years. ... Hence, the main aim of this study was to know the average age at which parents first seek dental care for their children and also to find out the common reasons for seeking dental ...

The recommendation for a child's first dental visit to occur at or before age 1 has been the standard since 2001. Yet, practically speaking, dentistry for patients under the age of 3 continues to be largely spoken of didactically, and not widely implemented clinically in general practice. This is not a criticism as much as an observation.

Children who had their first preventive dental visit by age 1 were more likely to have subsequent preven-tive visits but were not more likely to have subsequent restorative or emer- ... Age of Child Figure 2: Average dental costs for children aged 1-5 from 1992-1997. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is the recognized authority ...

A total of 21% of this population required restorative treatment, and the average age at first dental examination was 3.6 years. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model showed increased hazard for restorative treatment with age at first dental visit at 3 years (hazard ratio, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.97 to 2.13) and 4 years (hazard ratio, 3.99; 95 ...

During the visit, you will be seated in the dental chair with your child on your lap if your child isn't able to — or doesn't want to — sit in the chair alone. The dentist will check for mouth injuries, cavities or other issues. Once that part of the exam is over, the dentist will clean your child's teeth and give you tips for daily care.

In advance of the visit, give them an idea of what to expect: Go over what will happen at the appointment (more on that below). And be sure not to pass on any personal fear you may have of dentists to your child. Give them every opportunity to enjoy their first visit. Explain why it's important to go to the dentist and how it keeps them healthy.

When to schedule baby's first dental visit. It might sound early, but aim to schedule your baby's first dentist appointment at a pediatric dentist (or one who's good with children) within 6 months of the time he sprouts a tooth or turns a year old, whichever comes first, according to the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Pediatric ...

Even if your child begins teething later than the average age, you can still take them to see the dentist before they develop a tooth. If your child has not gotten a tooth by the time of their first birthday, you should go ahead and bring them in for a dentist visit anyway. ... Discover the importance of a child's first dental visit with the ...

The first dental visit should begin during pregnancy to advise the expectant mother on the importance of dental visit at 6 months of age. The average ages of first dental visit described in various studies are as follows: >6 years, 5-12 years, 5 years, 3-5 years, and 14.92 months. This study revealed that most of the children are brought ...

We hypothesized that offering guidance to parents on how to prepare their children for the first visit would (I) reduce the degree of unpleasantness of the visit for children, (II) reduce the child's pain perception, (III) increase the child's cooperation, and (IV) be appreciated by parents. Go to: 2. Materials and Methods.

Some children don't get their first tooth in their first year, and if this is your child, then you can delay their first dental visit until it does appear. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the average age of a child's first dental visit is 2.6 years old. Visiting the dentist early in life helps ensure baby or ...

The mean age recommended for first visits was 20.4 ± 10.8 months. Only 45.4% of dentists recommended a first visit ≤ 12 months. A majority (59.5%) knew that the correct age recommended for first visits was no later than 12 months. Most dentists who had seen a patient ≤ 12 months before did not typically do so (82.3%).

The number of dentists in this country that recommended that the first visit should be before the age of 1 year is small (17.93%). 39.31% of the respondents recommended that the first dental visit should take place between 1 and 2 years of age, and 31.03 percent between 2 and 3 years.

The average age group and most common complaint at the first dental visit was assessed. A prospective study was done in January 2008, were 215 children were screened. The assessment was made as explained above. Results: Retrospective study Maximum number of children who reported for their first dental visit was between 6-12 years (59.08%). Most ...

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Series 1: 1. Andy and the Chipmunk. The park needs acorns, so Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to Canada to collect some. 14 mins. Series 1: 2. Andy and the Meerkats. Andy heads to Africa to ...
Amazon.co.uk: Andy Dinosaur Adventure Costume For Kids
Kids Explorer Kit - Explorer Kit Toys for Kids - Explorer Costume - Kids Safari Hat - Dinosaur Torch Projector included. Explorers Adventure Dress Up Toy for Children 3-7 Years Old. 201. 300+ bought in past month. £1999. Save 5% on any 4 qualifying items. FREE Delivery by Amazon. Cheerful Children Toys Kids Explorer Costume Kit including ...
Andy's Safari Adventures
Andy's Safari Adventures. Get ready to join Andy on a series of fun-filled, jaw-dropping and eye-popping adventures getting closer than ever before to the wildlife that inhabits our planet.
BBC iPlayer
Andy's Safari Adventures. Andy works at Safari World, the biggest and best safari park on the planet, with his boss, Mr Hammond, and his tech wizard assistant Jen, who monitors all the animals ...
Amazon.co.uk: Andy The Dinosaur Adventure Costume
Cheerful Children Toys Kids Explorer Costume Kit including Safari Vest and hat plus Dinosaur and Bug Educational Handbooks. For Dress up, Outdoor Adventures and Role play. Suitable for 3-7 year olds.…. 1,400. 100+ bought in past month. £1399 - £1699. Save 5% on any 4 qualifying items.
Amazon.co.uk: 'Andy's Dinosaur Adventures'
Cheerful Children Toys Kids Explorer Costume Kit including Safari Vest and hat plus Dinosaur and Bug Educational Handbooks. For Dress up, Outdoor Adventures and Role play. Suitable for 3-7 year olds.…. 1,403. 100+ bought in past month. £1699. Save 5% on any 4 qualifying items. FREE Delivery by Amazon.
Andy's Safari Adventures
Andy's Safari Adventures (ASA) is a CBeebies television show starring Andy Day, it is the fourth series of Andy's Adventures. Andy now works at Safari World, the biggest and best wildlife park on the planet, with boss, Mr Hammond, and tech wizard Jen. When trouble strikes Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to visit animals around the world in search of a solution. There were two series ...
Andy's Safari Adventures (TV Series 2018-2019)
Andy's Safari Adventures: With Andy Day, Adam Astill, Puja Panchkoty. Andy works at Safari World, the biggest and best wildlife park on the planet, with boss, Mr Hammond, and tech wizard Jen. When trouble strikes Andy jets off in his safari-mobile to visit animals around the world in search of a solution.
Andy's Safari Adventures
Buy Andy's Safari Adventures: Lions, Giraffes & Other Adventures on Google Play, then watch on your PC, Android, or iOS devices. Download to watch offline and even view it on a big screen using Chromecast.
Andy's Safari Adventures
Andy's back and on a NEW adventure We're having a safari week to celebrate! 女 ... Tune in for Andy's Safari Adventures weekdays at 5:20pm or find on BBC iPlayer! 6y. Edited. 2. Cherie Brine. Who's the actor playing Mr Hammond, I recognise him from somewhere and it's driving me crazy. 6y.
Andy's Safari Adventures: Season 1
Season 1 - Andy's Safari Adventures 2018 Kids & Family Entertainment Adventure List 0 Reviews Tomatometer Andy goes on amazing and fun-filled adventures to get closer to nature and discover ...
Prime Video: Andy's Safari Adventures Vol. 1
February 13, 2018. 14min. ALL. When a newly orphaned shoebill chick arrives at Safari World, Andy and Jen notice it's having trouble drinking water. Andy takes to the skies in his safari-mobile, jetting off to the swamps of Zambia, in Southern Africa, to discover how shoebill chicks drink water. Along the way, he meets a pack of African hunting ...
Andy's Safari Adventures: All Episodes
46 62 4.1k. When Andy leaves his sandwich in the lion enclosure, it attracts an infestation of flies, just as Mr Hammond is hoping to take pictures of the lions for the park's website. Andy jets off to Africa in his safari-mobile to see how lions in the wild deal with flies. Along the way, he meets an agama lizard who just might have the ...
Amazon.co.uk: Andy Adventures
Dinosaur T-Rex Iron-On Patch - Dinosaur Adventure Costume - Andy's Dinosaur Adventure Inspired - Ranger Dress Up, Yellow & Black, 6cm x 4cm. 6. £950. FREE delivery Wed, 21 Feb on your first eligible order to UK or Ireland. Or fastest delivery Tomorrow, 19 Feb. Only 9 left in stock.
Andy's Safari Adventures
Andy's Safari Adventures TV-Y7 2018 - Present 1 Season Kids & Family Special Interest List Reviews Andy goes on amazing and fun-filled adventures to get closer to nature and discover unique animals.
Prime Video: Andy's Safari Adventures S01
Andy works at Safari world, the biggest and best safari park on the planet, home to animals from all over the globe. S1 E14 - Andy and the Catfish. May 9, 2018. 14min. ALL. When Mr Hammond's photo of a catfish is destroyed, Andy heads to a cave in Africa to track down a catfish and take a new picture.
Prime Video: Andy's Safari Adventures Vol. 2
Andy's Safari Adventures. Season 2. Andy Day takes viewers closer than ever before to the wildlife, large and small, that inhabits our planet. This fun-filled series combines Andy's jaw-dropping adventures across the globe with stunning footage from the Natural History Unit showing incredible creatures and their behaviours. 2018 9 episodes. ALL.
Moscow Metro and Swan Lake
A few days ago, I went with Elena and Becky on a trip around the Moscow metro, the second most heavily used metro system in the world. I didn't know much about it before, but it's an architectural marvel in and of itself, a gorgeous relic from Moscow's Soviet past and Stalinist architecture in particular.…
AUTUMN ADVENTURE / comic about bmx and moscow metro
Сomic about one autumn bike adventure in MoscowBased on a real story 2015 • ink and redis nib on paperкомикс об одном осеннем велоприключении в МосквеОсновано на реальных событиях 2015 • тушь и перо рэдис
Amazon.co.uk: Andy's Adventures
Andy's Aquatic Adventures: Vol 2 [DVD] [2020] 14. DVD. £324. FREE delivery 18 - 21 Mar. Only 1 left in stock. +2 colours/patterns. Cheerful Children Toys Kids Explorer Costume Kit including Safari Vest and hat plus Dinosaur and Bug Educational Handbooks. For Dress up, Outdoor Adventures and Role play.
Moscow Sky Lights Up With Strange Glow After Explosion at ...
New footage has emerged showing bright flashes lighting up the night sky in southern Moscow during the early morning hours of November 22. Knewz.com has learned that there was an explosion at an ...
sesame street snuffy's safari
Sesame Street - Snuffy's Safari by Sesame Workshop. Publication date 2004 Topics flash, sesame street, snuffy, snuffleupagus, 2000's Language English. A Sesame Street flash game originally from sesamestreet.com. Files mostly ripped from cdn.sesameworkshop.org's archives.... Sesame Street Alphabet Soup; Bumper Cars Check Out Cookie Chicken Dance Elmo; The Close-Up Game Clouds Color Me Hungry ...

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Moscow Sky Lights Up With Strange Glow After Explosion at Electrical Substation: Reports

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