An Analysis of the First Dental Visits in a Federally Qualified Health Center in a Socio Economically Deprived Area

Dental caries is the single most common chronic disease affecting children in the USA. Approximately 20-25% children are affected. This not only has serious implications for a child long term health and well being but also has serious financial implications. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advocates early intervention with the first dental visit by 12 months of age. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the first dental visit for children living in a socio economically deprived area in Connecticut. This study was conducted at a Federally Qualified Health Center in Connecticut. Study Design: Data was collected prospectively on the children between January to December 2004. Results: We found that the mean age for the first visit was 4 years. The recommendation is that community health programs should emphasize the importance of preventive dental care by assuring the first dental visit be by age 1 year.