Disease prevention starts early. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit when their first tooth erupts or by age one. Educating parents and children on healthy oral hygiene and nutritional habits early is beneficial in promoting optimum oral health as well as overall health for a lifetime. The prevention of disease begins with the Infant Oral Health Exam and continues through routine cleanings, check-ups, and dental education.
Oral examinations are recommended based on your child’s specific needs, typically every 6 months, starting when your child’s first tooth erupts. Depending on your child’s age and specific dental concerns radiographs may be recommended. During the oral exam your child’s oral health, along with their growth and development, will be evaluated. The doctor will provide diagnosis, treatment recommendations or referrals at this time. This includes patients that have been referred to our office.
Dental cleaning or prophylaxis intervals are recommended based on your child’s specific needs, typically every 6 months. Regular dental cleanings have been shown to improve children’s oral health and overall health by decreasing oral bacteria that can invade gum tissues and even enter the blood stream. Children often do not have the manual dexterity to brush properly on their own and require assistance from parents and dental providers. At each dental visit, oral hygiene and brushing techniques will be reviewed with children and their parents to ensure prevention of dental disease.
During each dental examination the dentist and hygienist will spend time evaluating your child’s oral hygiene along with their oral growth and development. They will provide education regarding any interventions that may be necessary or beneficial for your child. This may include a referral to an orthodontist or another dental or medical specialist.