What to Expect During Pediatric Dental Check-ups
Efforts to keep your child’s smile healthy start early. Routine pediatric dental check-ups are vital in ensuring proper oral development and overall oral health. But what happens during one of these visits?
This article explores what you and your child can expect during a pediatric dental check-up.
Patient and Parent Education
The job of a pediatric dentist is more than just caring for teeth directly. It also includes educating and empowering patients and their parents in a fun caring fashion.
Teaching proper oral hygiene skills based on the child’s age can give them the tools they need to excel in caring for teeth and gums. Understanding and implementing the right techniques at home can have a positive impact on your child’s dental health.
Dental Cleanings and Comprehensive Exam
Dental check-up visits are an important part of routine dental care and often consist of a dental cleaning and a comprehensive exam.
A thorough exam allows the dentist to assess the child’s level of oral health. If any areas of concern arise, the best treatment options will be discussed so that the next steps can be taken. And, as mentioned, it allows your child’s dentist to ensure proper developmental health.
While they may not be taken during every visit, dental X-rays help dentists see what is not visible to the naked eye. Your child’s dentist will discuss the necessity of these images and the safety and care involved with them.
Finally, dental cleanings are meant to be a part of routine oral hygiene — now and throughout life. You can expect that your child will have their teeth professionally cleaned during these visits. This may or may not be followed up with a fluoride treatment and dental sealants, depending on their age.
Building Trust with the Dental Team
Dental check-ups are the perfect opportunity for kids to build a level of trust with their dental team. The sights, sounds, and experiences that take place in the office are new and can cause some kids to be uncomfortable, nervous, and even a little fearful. The more they show up for these visits, they will become familiar and comfortable with the people and the whole routine.
Building this trust sets them up for success both now and in the future, making them more likely to stick to their routine dental visits throughout their lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pediatric Dentistry
How often should my child have a dental check up?
Most dentists recommend that your child have a check up every six months. It should become a regular part of any oral hygiene routine.
When should a child have their first dental visit?
A child’s first dental visit should take place within 6 months of the arrival of their first tooth or one year old, whichever comes first, regardless of how many teeth they have — if any at all.
Schedule Your Child’s Pediatric Dental Check Up
Is your child due for a dental visit? At Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis, we partner with parents, giving your child a solid foundation for their future oral health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations:
Kirby Center Cove 901-363-8192
White Station 901-560-4386