Most children have their first visit to the dentist years later than recommended a new survey has found.
Data from an Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) survey of 25,000 Australian adults showed that 40 per cent of parents though around two years old was acceptable for their child’s first dental visit, while 20 per cent believed it should be age three and 10 per cent believed four or older was appropriate.
Only 25 per cent thought age one or younger would be right.
“It all points to the need to fill in the gaps in parents’ knowledge of the right time to take action,” said ADA president Dr Chris Sanzaro of the survey results.
“Dentists recommend taking a child for their first dental visit when their first tooth comes through or by the age of one – whichever comes first.
“To some people that may seem a bit young – but it helps introduce the infant to the sights, sounds and sensations of the dentist, as well as helping to spot any issues early – though it’s unusual for much to be done at the first few visits.
“That way subsequent visits when perhaps an x-ray, scale and clean or filling is needed, won’t be so confronting for the child.”
The survey also found that 75 per cent of women didn’t have a dental checkup before conception, which is considered vital due to poor oral health in pregnant mothers being associated with poorer pregnancy outcomes like low birthweight babies.
Most survey respondents weren’t aware they needed to start flossing their children’s teeth from a very early age and many said they still gave them fruit juice despite knowing it contributes to decay.
“Parents do their best to get to the dentist or start good oral habits at home but in a busy world, where there’s no shortage of information, it can be challenging for parents to ensure all the necessary appointments have been made at the right times,” said Dr Sanzaro.
“The survey takeaway is that in a world full of information, it’s challenging for parents to ensure they’re meeting the basic health needs of their children, and their teeth shouldn’t be overlooked.”
