Dental Exams and Cleanings
Preventing Problems Before They Start
The health of your child’s teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of his or her entire body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your child’s smile looking its best, visiting the dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association (ADA) and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that your child receive regular checkups to ensure his or her teeth stay healthy and smile stays beautiful.
By routinely seeing the dentist for exams and cleanings, your child can:
- Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath
- Avoid costly and extensive dental procedures
- Have white teeth by reducing staining from food and drinks
- Shorten the time spent in the dentist’s office
- Have a smile that will last a lifetime
The Exam
During your child’s exam, our pediatric dentists will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. The dentist may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening between the teeth that could not otherwise be visible to the naked eye. Our office uses only digital X-rays to minimize total exposure to the patient.
Professional Cleanings
The pediatric dentist or dental assistant will clean your child's teeth. Depending on the age or needs of your child, this may be accomplished with a toothbrush and/or a rubber cup with polishing compound. The dentist may also use an instrument to remove hard mineral buildup (called tartar or calculus) from certain teeth. The dental staff will also talk with you about applying a topical fluoride varnish to aid in protecting the teeth from cavities.
Every child is unique and there are many techniques to facilitate a positive dental cleaning. Depending on your child's age, anxiety, or behavior, we will talk with you about ways to make him or her comfortable. Please let us know prior to getting started if you have specific questions or concerns, as we will be happy to discuss the planned approach for your child's appointment.
