Periodicity of Examination, Preventive Dental Services, Anticipatory Guidance/Counseling, and Oral Treatment for Infants, Children, and Adolescents

Abstract

This best practice presents recommendations about anticipatory guidance and timing of other clinical modalities which promote oral health during infancy, childhood, and adolescence. The guidance, though modifiable to children with special health needs, focuses on healthy, normal-developing children and addresses comprehensive oral examination, assessment of caries risk, periodontal risk assessment, professional preventive procedures, fluoride supplementation, radiographic examination, anticipatory guidance, preventive counseling, sealant placement, treatment of dental disease, trauma, treatment of developing malocclusions, evaluation of third molars, and transition to adult care. These preventive recommendations may be applied for the following age groups: six to 12 months, 12 to 24 months, 24 months to six years, six to 12 years, and 12 years and older. The guidance emphasizes the importance of very early professional intervention and continuity of care based upon theindividualized needs of the child. 

The document was developed through a collaborative effort of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Councils on Clinical Affairs and Scientific Affairs to offer updated information and recommendations regarding oral health services and counseling for pediatric dental patients. 

^{KEYWORDS:   ANTICIPATORY GUIDANCE, PERIODICITY OF EXAMINATION, PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY,
ADOLESCENT DENTISTRY, CARIES RISK ASSESSMENT, FLUORIDE SUPPLEMENT, ORAL HYGIENE COUNSELING, DENTAL REFERRAL}