Pediatric Dental Exams and Teeth Cleaning in Virginia Beach

Does Your Child Need a Pediatric Dental Exam in Virginia Beach?

According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentists, you should take your baby in for their first pediatric dental exam around their first birthday. This way, you can make sure their baby teeth are coming in properly. It's a simple, brief visit with no x-rays. You'll hold your baby in your lap while the dentist looks in their mouth and addresses your concerns about teething, cleaning their teeth, thumb sucking, and more. You should bring your child in every six months thereafter and soon they will learn that visiting a dentist can be a fun, exciting experience where everyone caters to them.

We offer services for children from babies to teenagers, including:

1. Cavity prevention, such as sealants and fluoride treatments
2. Decay treatment
3. Treatment for gum disease
4. Oral cancel screenings
5. Checking for correct teeth and jaw development
6. Ensuring gum health
7. Parental and caregiver education
8. Information about not letting children fall asleep with sugary drinks in a bottle

If your child needs a pediatric dental exam in Virginia Beach, please contact us to schedule an appointment. We offer more services than the ones listed above. Our goal is to ensure your child enjoys good dental health and learns good dental habits that will last them a lifetime.

Who Does Kid’s Teeth Cleaning and Gum Disease Treatment?

Professional teeth cleanings aren't simply for adults. They are a preventative service that can eliminate plaque build up and help prevent decay and gum disease. Your child's pediatric dentist will go over the procedure with you when they feel your child is ready, usually around age two. We will also explain the process to your child in a language they will understand.

If your child develops plaque build up near their gums, it will irritate the gums, causing gingivitis. You may notice your child's gums bleed when they brush their teeth, or their gums look bright red and swollen. Your child may not want to brush their teeth anymore. If so, please call us right away. Gingivitis is curable, but if it progresses into a more serious form of gum disease, your child may need periodontal treatment.

Are Pediatric Dental X-Rays Necessary?

X-rays are an indispensable diagnostic tool for dentists who need to spot potential problems that are not visible to the naked eye. They can help your child's dentist spot issues while they are minor and easier to treat. Nevertheless, our pediatric dentists don't use them indiscriminately. We always consider your child's individual circumstances when determining how often to take x-rays. Modern technology makes x-rays safer than ever before, especially for young children.

Can Kids Suffer From Bad Breath?

Most kids have bad breath due to inadequate brushing and flossing. Bacteria-laden plaque builds up and produces a smelly gas that results in bad breath. This happens often, as most kids don't brush their teeth as well as they should. Making sure your child brushes for at least two minutes twice a day and flosses once a day will often solve the problem. Have them gently brush their tongue as well. If this does not help, contact us and schedule an appointment. Your child could have a decaying tooth, which will also cause bad breath. We'll do our best to find the cause and keep your child from being embarrassed at school or when talking with their friends.

Do Kids Need Oral Cancer Screenings?

Oral cancer is rare in children, but it can happen. An oral cancer screening is non-invasive and the child may not even know they are being screened. It's merely a visual exam. The dentist may ask your child to stick out their tongue and say, “Ahhhh.” We believe every child deserves a screening since the survival rate is much higher if the cancer is caught early. Call us if you notice anything unusual in your child's mouth, like a persistent sore throat, sores that don't go away in 10 days, or unusual red or white patches.

If you need a trusted dentist for a pediatric dental exam for your child, please contact us. We're passionate about kid's oral health. We strive to provide the best possible care that will keep your child healthy and pain-free, with a beautiful smile.