What Happens During A Checkup?

Posted October 27, 2017

Dental exams are not just for adults. Children need to see the dentist regularly to enjoy optimal oral health. Otherwise, minor issues could be allowed to flourish and eventually, threaten their oral health, leading to painful decay or even premature tooth loss. How frequently should their smiles be examined? What happens during a checkup?

Frequently Asked Questions About Children’s Checkups

Question: How often should kids see the dentist?

Answer: Once your child’s first tooth erupts and he/she undergoes an initial exam, a routine checkup and possibly a cleaning will be necessary every six months. These routine visits can help protect little smiles from the onset of cavities and other oral health issues. The dentist can also monitor smiles to watch for the development of common problems, such as misalignment.

Question: How does the dentist examine their smiles?

Answer: The dentist will use digital x-rays, which use up to 80% less radiation and don’t require a lengthy development process using harsh chemicals, to create instant, detailed images of the smile beneath the gums. We also employ intraoral cameras to obtain accurate pictures of the teeth and gums. We can then accurately diagnose the presence of any issues requiring treatment.

Question: Will there be a cleaning too?

Answer: We often perform a thorough cleaning during the same visit to remove plaque from the teeth. Removing plaque can reduce the risk of cavities, safeguarding smiles.

Question: Will you provide preventive treatments as well?

Answer: Yes! We can offer fluoride treatments to strengthen a tooth’s natural defenses against the onset of cavities. We may also suggest a dental sealant, which is a plastic coating that covers the rear teeth in the mouth. The sealant prevents food particles from remaining stuck between hard-to-reach teeth, helping kids stay free of tooth decay.

Does Your Child Need a Checkup?

You can give us a call and set up a dental exam for your children. Schedule a visit with your Dallas, TX children’s dentist, Dr. Marr at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda by calling 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and more.