Implementation - 3 Simple Steps

Three Simple Steps Poster

1.  Oral Health Screeening and Risk Assessment - target children from birth - 5 years

Oral Health Screening

Position the child

• Infant: knee-to-knee position
• Older child: position the child on an exam table and work from above the head

Lift the lip and look in the mouth for :

• Early signs of decay - white spot or line lesions, along the gumline
• Brown spots on teeth
• Signs of moderate to severe dental decay where portions of the teeth are decayed
• Signs of dental abscess

Risk Assessment

Key factors that determine risk

• Are decay or white spot lesions visible?
• Has child ever had any cavities or fillings?
• Has mother (or primary care giver) had cavities or fillings in the past year?
• Have any of the child's brothers/sisters ever had cavities or fillings in the past year?

Determine if child is at risk and would benefit from fluoride varnish application

Refer child to dentist, as necessary

2.  Application of Fluoride Varnish

Apply the Varnish

• Dry teeth with gauze (if possible)
• Apply fluoride varnish to all surfaces of the teeth
• Once applied, the varnish sets quickly

Instruct the Parent

• Eat a soft, non-abrasive diet for the rest of the day
• Do not brush or floss until the next morning
• The teeth may be yellow and not shiny until the next day
• Give the parent tear-off directions for after-care treatment

3.  Deliver Anticipatory Guidance to Families

"Lift the Lip" Training

• Show the family how to examine the child using the lap position. Ask if they feel comfortable doing this once per month

Encourage Families to

• Begin cleaning and brushing teeth every day, as soon as the first tooth appears
• Choose healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables and cheese; limit snacks that are sugary, starchy or sticky
• Avoid "grazing" - snacking or sipping sweet liquids throughout the day

Three Simple Steps Poster