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. 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 whiter 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 be able to evaluate beneath the surface of the teeth and gums. X-ray images will help the dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.
Professional Cleanings
The dental professional will begin your child’s cleaning by flossing your child's teeth to remove any plaque or food that has lodged into between the teeth. Then, the dental professional will polish your child's teeth with prophylaxis paste to ensure the tooth surface is clean and free of food or plaque so that that the dentist may complete a thorough examination on newly cleaned teeth.