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 their 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 Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that your child visit the dentist every six months to ensure their 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, 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. The images provided will help the dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.

Professional Cleanings

A dental professional will carefully clean your child’s teeth with a variety of tools to remove any plaque and hard mineral buildup (tartar or calculus) from the teeth. The cleaning will include flossing, polishing, 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 us know. An important part of the dental cleaning and check-up is educating families on proper oral hygiene. Before your family leaves their appointment, we want to make sure that your child and you are equipped to properly take care of their mouth at home.