What is a pediatric dental exam?
During dental exams with the pediatric specialists at Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, your child’s dentist examines their teeth and gums to detect or rule out oral health problems. Routine pediatric exams allow your child’s provider to treat minor cavities and orthodontic issues before painful complications develop.
What happens during pediatric dental exams?
When your child arrives at a pediatric dental exam, they are greeted by warm, welcoming staff. Appointments typically consist of:
Digital X-rays
If your child is due for X-rays, their dental specialist uses digital X-ray technology to take pictures of the teeth, gums, and teeth that haven’t erupted yet. The procedure is safe, fast, and painless.
Professional cleaning
During a professional dental cleaning, your child relaxes in a comfortable dental chair while a hygienist gently cleans and flosses their teeth to remove stains, plaque, and tartar in hard-to-reach areas. To help your child relax and reduce anxiety, the Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics team offers nitrous oxide, or laughing gas.
Comprehensive examination
Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics dental specialists complete comprehensive dental exams for your child. They review X-rays and evaluate your child’s teeth and gums to detect dental problems early, while they’re still easy to treat.
Which pediatric dental treatments are available?
In addition to professional cleanings, your child’s dentist might recommend fluoride treatment or sealants — a protective coating applied to the top surface of your child’s teeth to prevent future decay.
Dental specialists offer tooth-colored fillings to treat small cavities, crowns to repair and protect teeth, and extractions. Orthodontic treatments available to straighten your child’s teeth include traditional children’s braces and Invisalign®.
Dental experts provide custom-fit mouthguards to protect from grinding at night or mouth trauma associated with contact sports. Providers tailor each pediatric treatment to meet your child’s needs.
How often should I schedule a dental exam?
Unless your dentist recommends more frequent visits, schedule a dental exam for your child every six months, or if they experience signs of tooth decay or trauma. Examples include tooth pain, temperature sensitivity, discoloration, cracks, chips, or visible holes in the teeth.
Between visits, encourage your child to brush their teeth twice daily, floss daily, avoid chewing on hard objects, and eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in added sugar. Help them brush their teeth until they turn seven or eight years old. The next time your child is due for a pediatric dental exam, call the office at Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics or book an appointment online today.
