What is Involved in a Children’s Check-up at a Pediatric Dentistry?

Dental check-ups are an important part of oral health care. In pediatric dentistry, children should have a check-up every six months to keep teeth and gums healthy. Dental check-ups help to detect and treat any issues with the teeth and gums as they arise and can help prevent further issues from occurring.

What to expect at a dental check-up

Dental check-ups should begin within six months of the first baby tooth emerging and by the time a child turns 1 year old. It is always a good idea for parents to help prepare their children for dental check-ups. Knowing what to expect at a pediatric dentistry appointment can help children feel more at ease about visiting the dentist and can also make future appointments easier for them.

Cleanings

Professional teeth cleanings are done during dental check-ups. These cleanings help to eliminate any plaque and tartar that have built up on the teeth. Biannual cleanings prevent any accumulation of plaque and tartar. If plaque is not removed, it hardens and turns into tartar. Tartar is unable to be removed at home and can cause serious dental issues such as gum disease if left untreated.

After plaque and tartar are removed, the teeth are thoroughly brushed and flossed. After the cleaning is complete, a fluoride treatment is usually applied to the teeth to help give them extra protection from cavities.

Examinations

In addition to a cleaning, an examination is also performed during a pediatric dentistry check-up. The dental exam involves a thorough inspection of the teeth, gums, jaws, and oral tissues. This helps to check for cavities, as well as any dental abnormalities that may need to be addressed. 

X-rays

X-rays are often part of a check-up. An x-ray provides in-depth images of the interior of the teeth, roots, and gums to get an overall look at a child's dental health. X-rays can help the dentist to see and treat any dental issues that may arise that may not be seen during a routine dental exam, including cavities, infections, gum disease, and impacted teeth.

Counseling

After the check-up is complete, the dentist will discuss any issues that need to be addressed and the treatments available. For younger children, the dentist may address dental habits such as pacifier use and thumb sucking and the impact they can have on developing baby teeth. 

The dentist will also discuss dental hygiene habits, such as proper brushing of the teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, as well as flossing once per day. Older children may be advised to add mouthwash to their hygiene routine for extra cavity protection. 

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentistry in Reston, VA

Conclusion

Routine dental check-ups are critical to both the dental and overall health of children. Pediatric dentistry helps children get into the habit of regularly visiting the dentist and maintaining proper dental hygiene, setting them up for a healthy smile that will last them for a lifetime.

Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.

Recent Posts

Why A Pediatric Dentistry Office Would Recommend Fluoridated Water

Fluoridated water is part of pediatric dentistry. It is a convenient and easy way to strengthen and protect teeth at an early age. Many areas have fluoridated water, which is a definite advantage. If you want to know why a dentist will likely recommend fluoridated water, here are the details.Studies show that almost all sources…

What Is The Best Time To Go To A Pediatric Dentistry?

The right time to schedule a pediatric dentistry appointment for your child can vary based on a variety of factors. Routine professional cleanings and checkups are an essential part of good oral health for patients of all ages, including babies and children. You may be surprised to find out just how early the American Dental…

Does Pediatric Dentistry Use Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are important in pediatric dentistry. Each primary tooth is a living guide for the development of permanent teeth. But baby teeth can also suffer from decay. So restoring these teeth is important for the general health of your child. If you want to know if pediatric dentistry uses dental crowns, here are the…

Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

Share
Published by
Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

Recent Posts

Lingual Braces Orthodontic Therapy

Many have heard of traditional metal braces, but fewer are familiar with how lingual braces…

1 day ago

Options for Teenage Orthodontic Therapy

At certain points in life, orthodontic therapy may be more helpful and necessary. Take the…

3 days ago

Post-Orthodontic Care Options: Retainers

Maintaining the position of the teeth after orthodontic treatment requires the use of dental retainers.…

1 week ago

What to Know About Adult Teeth Straightening

An orthodontist can recommend different teeth straightening options to adult patients. These methods can deal…

2 weeks ago

Why Bite Correction Is Important

Bite correction in orthodontic care offers a number of benefits for patients. Notably, many patients…

2 weeks ago

Why Choosing a Kid-Friendly Dentist Matters for Your Child’s Comfort

A kid friendly dentist can provide your child with the right dental care. Most adults…

3 weeks ago