Services at O&P Tulip

Radiographic assessment

Appropriate radiographs are a valuable adjunct in the oral health care of infants, children and adolescents.

Timing of initial radiographic examination should not be based upon the

patient’s age.

Rather, after review of an individual’s history and clinical findings, judicious determination of radiographic needs and examination can optimize patient care while minimizing radiation exposure.

Diet Counseling and Oral Hygiene Counseling

Oral hygiene counseling involves the parent and patient. Initially, oral hygiene is the responsibility of the parent. As the child develops, home care is performed jointly by parent and child. When a child demonstrates the understanding and ability

to perform personal hygiene techniques, the health care professional should counsel the child. The effectiveness of home care should be monitored at every visit and includes a discussion on the consistency of daily preventive activities.

Frequent bottle feeding at night, breastfeeding on demand, and extended and repetitive use of a no-spill training cup are associated with, but not consistently implicated in, ECC. The role of carbohydrates in caries initiation is unequivocal. Acids in carbonated beverages can have a deleterious effect (i.e., erosion) on enamel. Excess consumption of carbohydrates, fats, and sodium contribute to poor systemic health. Dietary analysis and the role of dietary choices on oral health, malnutrition, and obesity should be addressed through nutritional and preventive oral health counseling at periodic visits.