First dental visit of a child.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the common chief complaints of the Indian children and the average age group at which they report for in their first dental visit.

Materials And Methods: A retrospective study was carried out using the case records of 716 children who reported to the postgraduate section of Department of Pediatric dentistry, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College, Chennai, in 2007. The age groups of the children were divided into three categories 0-3 years, 3-6 years and 6-12 years. The various chief complaints were categorised as follows, Orientation to prevention, Routine visit, Deposits/Discoloration, Habits, Unerupted/Missing or Extra Tooth, Pain, Dental caries, Malocclusion, Trauma, others. The average age group and most common complaint at the first dental visit was assessed. A prospective study was done in January 2008, were 215 children were screened. The assessment was made as explained above.

Results: Retrospective study Maximum number of children who reported for their first dental visit was between 6-12 years (59.08%). Most common chief complaint for the visit was pain (42.04%). Second common complaint being dental caries (28.49%). Prospective study Maximum number of children who reported for their first dental visit was between 6-12 years (69.77%). Most common chief complaint was dental caries (34.88%). Second common complaint being pain (27.91%).

Conclusion: Children report for the first dental visit most commonly only after 6 years and for complaints like pain and dental caries. Orientation to prevention is not considered and preventive dentistry is yet to reach the common population in India.