Pediatric Dental Exams &
Teeth Cleanings
Pediatric Dental Exams: What to Expect
Dental exams for children should be scheduled at least every six
months. During the exams, a pediatric dentist or dental hygienist will
clean your child’s teeth and take x-rays of their mouth.
After the teeth cleaning, they apply fluoride and/or sealants to protect
their teeth from decay. For younger children, proper brushing and
flossing techniques are also typically discussed.
As children get older, oral care needs change. Dental exams for older
children and teenagers include the same services mentioned above. In
addition, pediatric dentists usually discuss the oral health risks
associated with tobacco and substance abuse.
, Preventive Treatment Options for Children and Adolescents
Preventive dentistry focuses on preventing oral diseases and keeping
the teeth strong throughout life. These treatments protect children from
developing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions.
During a dental exam, a pediatric dentist may use a combination of
preventive treatments, including:
Professional Teeth Cleanings
Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash regularly helps remove
plaque buildup, but not all of the bacteria can be removed with a normal
toothbrush.
During in-office teeth cleanings, a pediatric dentist removes any plaque
and tartar on the surfaces of teeth and between teeth.
Professional Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks and soil that
helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens tooth enamel. Because of
these decay fighting properties, small amounts of fluoride have been
added to tap water, certain types of toothpaste, mouth rinses, and dental
materials.
There are two types of professional fluoride treatments available today,
including topical and systemic. The first is topical fluoride, which includes
gels and varnishes that dental hygienists apply during teeth cleanings.
Systemic fluoride, on the other hand, comes in a pill form and is usually
prescribed to children who are fluoride-deficient.
Sealants
Teeth Cleanings
Pediatric Dental Exams: What to Expect
Dental exams for children should be scheduled at least every six
months. During the exams, a pediatric dentist or dental hygienist will
clean your child’s teeth and take x-rays of their mouth.
After the teeth cleaning, they apply fluoride and/or sealants to protect
their teeth from decay. For younger children, proper brushing and
flossing techniques are also typically discussed.
As children get older, oral care needs change. Dental exams for older
children and teenagers include the same services mentioned above. In
addition, pediatric dentists usually discuss the oral health risks
associated with tobacco and substance abuse.
, Preventive Treatment Options for Children and Adolescents
Preventive dentistry focuses on preventing oral diseases and keeping
the teeth strong throughout life. These treatments protect children from
developing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions.
During a dental exam, a pediatric dentist may use a combination of
preventive treatments, including:
Professional Teeth Cleanings
Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash regularly helps remove
plaque buildup, but not all of the bacteria can be removed with a normal
toothbrush.
During in-office teeth cleanings, a pediatric dentist removes any plaque
and tartar on the surfaces of teeth and between teeth.
Professional Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks and soil that
helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens tooth enamel. Because of
these decay fighting properties, small amounts of fluoride have been
added to tap water, certain types of toothpaste, mouth rinses, and dental
materials.
There are two types of professional fluoride treatments available today,
including topical and systemic. The first is topical fluoride, which includes
gels and varnishes that dental hygienists apply during teeth cleanings.
Systemic fluoride, on the other hand, comes in a pill form and is usually
prescribed to children who are fluoride-deficient.
Sealants
