Infant Oral Health Care

Infant oral health care :

Black and white baby toddlers brushing teeth. Isolated on white background. Objectives of infant examination

1. To record any abnormalities of tooth eruption and soft tissues
2. Presence of plaque on the teeth
3. Presence of white spots or demineralised areas
4. Presence of cavities
5. To record any developmental abnormalities like epstein’s pearl and bohn’s nodules

The examination procedure:

Armamentarium:

1. Light source
2. Mouth mirror
3. Soft bristled toothbrush
4. Gloves

Method:

The examination room table can be used for examination. Alternate and the most often used method is knee- to – knee position.

Knee to knee position:

• The dentist and parent sit facing each other in a chair or a stool, with knees touching.
• The parent slowly places the infant in the cradle formed by the legs.
• The child’s head is placed gently in the lap of the dentist.
• The parent gently restricts the infant’s legs under his or her arms and holds the arms and hand of the infant.
• The advantage of this position is that the infant is well supported and stable and the dentist has good visibility and access to the mouth. Parental contact has a calming reassurance to the child.

The behavior of the child, less than 3 years, varies widely during this examination procedure. Crying is a normal response to oral manipulation at this time. Parents must be reassured about this prior to the infant examination.