On exam of a 9-month-old, two lower incisors are erupted. The parent reports the infant nurses and takes solids, plus water from a cup. What is counsel for optimal dental health?

• A. To begin brushing the infant's teeth with toothpaste
• B. To consider weaning the infant from breastfeeding
• C. To discontinue giving fluoride supplements
• D. To make an appointment for an initial dental examination

Answer: (D)

Starting preventive dental care early by establishing a dental home is essential. The first dental visit by about 12 months lets a clinician examine eruption patterns, assess caries risk, and provide personalized guidance on hygiene and fluoride use. In a 9-month-old with two incisors erupted, this visit helps tailor advice to the family’s feeding routine—breast milk, solids, and a cup of water all influence caries risk. The clinician may apply fluoride varnish if indicated, demonstrate age-appropriate brushing technique, and discuss how much fluoride toothpaste to use for this child. They can also review the child’s fluoride exposure from drinking water and determine whether fluoride supplementation is needed, rather than assuming it should be stopped. The goal is to establish a preventive plan and a dental home, not to rely on a single action. Therefore, arranging an initial dental examination is the best step to optimize dental health in infancy.