The preschool child: practical treatment planning.

The preschool years extend from birth up to the age of 4 years and represent the time of most rapid growth and development. During this period the child progresses from the edentulous state to having a fully erupted and functional primary dentition. Also during the preschool years important stages in development of underlying permanent teeth occur. Good management of the preschool child is an excellent practice builder: it leads to a motivated patient, happy to undergo any treatment necessary, and encourages confidence and improves the attitudes to oral health of other members of the family.