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 recommends that your child visit the dentist every six months 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
The Exam
During your child’s exam, the dentist 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 beneath the surface of the teeth and gums. Our office uses exclusively digital X-rays, which minimizes radiation exposure to our patients.
Professional Cleanings
The dental hygienist or registered dental assistant will begin your child’s cleaning by exploring the surface of the teeth to determine if there are any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. Next, they will then clean your child’s teeth with a variety of tools to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from the teeth. The cleaning will then include polishing stain and softer deposits using a polishing compound, followed by flossing and application of a fluoride varnish. Cleanings usually aren’t painful, but if your child has any anxiety about the dental exam, be sure to let the office staff know. They may offer several calming options to ensure your child’s comfort, including moving them to a private quiet room, and/or use of "tell, show, do" educational techniques.
