Step 1 Clinical Examination by Age 12 Months
- Complete medical history
- Knee-to-knee exam with guardian
- Note clinical dental caries
- Soft tissue irregularities
- White-spot lesions, tongue anatomy
- Enamel decalification, hypoplasia
- Dietary staining
Step 2 Caries Risk Assessment
- Bottle or breast fed at night on demand
- Non-water in bedtime bottle
- Decalcification/caries present
- No oral home care
- Sugary foods, snacks
Step 3 Diet Counseling for Infants
- No juice or milk in bed
- Sippy cups can encourage decay
- Avoid sugar drinks, sodas
- Encourage variety and a balanced diet
- Low-sugar snacks
- Fluorides – topical and systemic
Step 4 Oral Home Care for Infants
- Brush/massage teeth and gums 2x daily
- Small, soft toothbrush
- Tiny amount of toothpaste, with Fluoride
- Guidance on thumb sucking, pacifier
- Response for home accidents, trauma
Step 5 Future Visit
- Based on Risk Assessment
- At age one year
- Two years if delayed in development