The Take a 1st Look program results include earlier and more frequent fluoride applications initiated by which group?

• A. Dentists only
• B. Patient care providers
• C. Pharmacists
• D. School nurses

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is who can most effectively trigger early and more frequent fluoride exposure for children. The Take a 1st Look program found that initiating fluoride applications by patient care providers—such as pediatricians, family physicians, and other medical clinicians who regularly see young children—leads to earlier and more frequent fluoride delivery. These medical visits occur during infancy and toddler years, so integrating fluoride treatments into routine care reaches children sooner and with greater consistency than waiting for dental visits alone. This approach helps close gaps in access for families who may not have a dentist yet. While dentists also provide fluoride, the program highlights the impact of medical clinicians in starting and sustaining early preventive fluoride care.