Oral health professionals can play a key role in serving this patient population.

Exclusively breastfed babies may be at increased risk for vitamin D deficiency, which can affect enamel development and caries risk.

Dental hygienists are well-equipped to advocate for improving access to care for the Nation’s most vulnerable populations.

With a growing body of evidence in preventive dental science and increased focus on patient-centered care, oral health professionals should consider new approaches to caries management.

Risk assessment, effective communication, and self-management goal setting are integral to supporting the oral health of children.

Understanding these neurodevelopmental disorders will help oral health professionals provide safe and effective care.

Effectively managing our youngest patients and assessing their caries risk get children on the path toward lifelong oral health.

Following are strategies for supporting oral health and ensuring positive dental experiences in this patient population.

Oral health professionals can help ensure a lifetime of oral health by educating children and families about the importance of diet during the developmental years.

As the link between maternal and infant oral health becomes more clear, dental hygiene practice must also evolve to reflect this new knowledge.