Helping Growing Smiles Stay Healthy
Routine pediatric dental exams help protect your child’s oral health by identifying concerns early and preventing future dental problems. At Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry, we provide comprehensive dental exams for children in Oklahoma City and Midwest City in a comfortable, kid-friendly environment focused on healthy smile development.
What Is a Pediatric Dental Exam?
A dental exam involves a thorough checkup of your teeth and gums. This process typically includes the following:
- Digital dental X-rays when appropriate
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Comprehensive examination of the teeth, gums, and bite
- Monitoring oral growth and development
- Personalized preventive care recommendations
If you fail to schedule these checkup visits, serious dental problems can occur. This includes tooth decay, gum disease, infections, and more.
Benefits of Routine Pediatric Dental Exams
Dental exams provide several advantages for the patient. Here are a few benefits of a dental exam:
- Helps to prevent dental problems, such as cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues
- Allows dentists to detect problems early on, making them easier to treat
- Educates patients on best practices for optimal oral health
- Can lead to fresher breath and a whiter smile
If you want to do what’s right for your dental health, make sure to schedule a dental exam about once every six months. This helps to keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape!
What to Expect During Your Child’s Dental Exam
Once the exam begins, the provider may start with X-rays. This involves wearing a protective vest while the dental hygienist takes x-rays of your teeth, gums, and jaw. This process only takes a minute or two.
During a professional cleaning, the hygienist will start with something called “scaling.” This is when they use small metal tools to scrape plaque and tartar from your teeth. The hygienist will also polish, floss, and add fluoride or sealants.
For the exam, the dentist will visually inspect your teeth and gums to look for any areas of concern. They will also look at your bite and screen for oral cancer.
How Often Should Children Have Dental Exams?
Most children should visit the pediatric dentist every six months for routine dental exams and cleanings. These regular visits allow us to monitor growth, prevent cavities, and provide early treatment when dental concerns are identified.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Exam Today
Keep your child’s smile healthy with routine pediatric dental exams at Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry. Contact our Oklahoma City or Midwest City office today to schedule an appointment with our experienced pediatric dental team.
