Dental Exam & Prophy

Regular dental check-ups are essential to endure healthy teeth and gums as they grow. And it familiarizes kids with our team to help build trust and confidence for future visits!

Dental Exam

At your first visit—and during regular check-ups—your dentist and hygienist will:

Review X-rays to check for decay, bone loss, and other issues
Screen for oral cancer
Examine gums for signs of periodontal disease
Check for cavities/tooth decay and assess existing dental work

Professional Cleaning

Cleanings are performed by a dental hygienist and include:

Removing plaque and tartar buildup
Polishing teeth to eliminate surface stains
Supporting overall gum and tooth health

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Dental Exam and Prophy FAQ

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and American Dental Association (ADA) both recommend children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting—whichever comes first.

Why so early?

Preventive care: Dentists can spot early signs of tooth decay or other issues.
Establishing habits: It helps parents learn proper cleaning techniques and feeding practices to protect baby teeth.
Comfort and familiarity: Early visits help children get used to the dental office, reducing fear later on.

After the initial visit, children should typically see a dentist every six months. These biannual visits allow the pediatric dentist to monitor oral development, assess the condition of teeth and gums, and guide parents on effective oral care.

However, the recommended frequency of visits may vary based on a child’s individual risk for cavities:

· Low risk (no signs of decay): Every 6 months is usually sufficient.

· Moderate risk (early signs of decay): Every 4 months for closer monitoring.

· High risk (frequent cavities, weak enamel, poor oral hygiene): Every 3 months to allow for preventive care and more frequent evaluations.

Children who are especially prone to tooth decay or exhibit early signs of orthodontic concerns may need additional visits as determined by the pediatric dentist.

A child’s dental health can change quickly due to factors like diet or habits such as thumb sucking. That’s why regular dental visits are important—even if everything looked fine six months ago.

During each visit, the pediatric dentist performs an exam and/or thorough cleaning to remove plaque and debris that home brushing may miss. They also monitor fluoride levels, often applying a topical fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and protect against decay. In some cases, fluoride supplements may be recommended.

Additionally, dental sealants may be applied to the back teeth to prevent cavities by sealing out food and bacteria.

Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The best way to prepare your child for their first dental appointment is by maintaining a calm, positive attitude. Children are very perceptive and often mirror adult emotions—so if you stay relaxed and upbeat, your child is more likely to feel at ease. (It also helps to fill out our necessary paperwork ahead of time!)

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure a smooth visit:

· Bring a Supportive Adult: An extra set of hands can help comfort your child during the appointment.

· Avoid Distractions: If possible, leave siblings at home so you can focus on your child’s experience.

· Use Positive, Simple Language: Explain that the dentist’s job is to help keep their teeth healthy. Avoid using words like “hurt” or “pain.”

· Introduce the Visit Ahead of Time: Read age-appropriate books, such as The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist, and show your child pictures of the dental office and staff from our website.

· Reassure and Encourage: Let your child know that visiting the dentist is a normal part of staying healthy, and that the dentist and staff are friendly and here to help.

Our team is trained to manage anxiety and create a welcoming environment, helping children feel safe and confident during their visit.