Like adults, routine dental examinations are required for children as well. It is extremely beneficial to detect cavities/decay early as it will preserve function and esthetics of the teeth. Our preventative plans are tailored to your child’s needs and cavity risk. This plan can include checkups, X-rays, sealants and fluoride.
Examinations
Like the Canadian Dental Association, our office suggests that a child visit a dentist within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by age one (whichever is first). We also suggest children visit our specialty pediatric dentistry clinic every 6 months as cavities on children can progress quite rapidly. On occasion, pediatric dentist will suggest examinations more frequently to monitor various oral conditions and depending on your child’s risk for dental caries.
Radiographs
Radiographs/x-xrays are an important diagnostic tool in dentistry. It allows your pediatric dentist to check for cavities that might not be visible (ex. In between teeth), or it can also allow us to monitor the growth and development of the jaws/mouth. It can also help us diagnose extra teeth or missing teeth.
Cleanings
Whether it be scaling or a polish, this is also a time to teach children/parents where they are missing in their brushing habits. It also may reveal cavities that are hiding under the plaque/calculus.
Fluoride
Fluoride is an important preventative measure. Our professionally applied fluoride is stronger than the toothpaste used in your home. We suggest this to help reduce the likelihood of cavities in the mouth. There are numerous benefits to fluoride when applied to teeth.