Oral health risk assessment should begin at what age?

• A. 6 months
• B. At birth
• C. 1 year
• D. 3 months

Answer: (A)

Initiate oral health risk assessment when the first teeth have begun to erupt, around six months of age. At this point caries risk factors become actionable and you can start anticipatory guidance with caregivers. Early assessment allows you to address feeding practices, bottle use, hygiene routines, fluoride exposure, and access to dental care, setting up preventive steps like brushing with fluoride toothpaste, limiting nocturnal sugary exposures, and tailoring fluoride use to the child’s needs. Waiting until one year delays preventive guidance and a formal risk plan, while assessments before six months are not yet feasible since widespread tooth eruption hasn’t occurred.