[A child s first 1,000 days: its relevance to the oral care practice].

Abstract

Every human life begins as a single, fertilized egg-cell. During the first 1,000 days of life, this cell develops into a 2-year-old toddler. More milestones are reached in this period of life than in any other. All organs are formed, the metabolism is set up, the microbiome is formed, the child learns to eat and drink, develops eating habits, food preferences, and learns to walk and talk. The environment in which these developments take place is crucial to health in later life. The established structures and systems will last for life and will thus have a life-long influence on the individual s general health. Due to the regular check-ups they carry out and their expertise in the field of preventive medicine, oral care providers can make an important contribution during this unique window of opportunity. This article summarizes why the first 1,000 days are important, and describes how oral care providers can contribute. Together with parents (to be) and children, they can build healthy habits, help prevent caries, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other chronic disorders, and be part of building the health of present and future generations.