Pediatric Dental Exams and Teeth Cleaning in Chesapeake

Does Your Child Need a Pediatric Dental Exam in Chesapeake?

Your child’s first pediatric dental exam should take place no later than their first birthday. If their teeth appear early, it should take place no later than six months after their first tooth appears. Many parents wonder why a baby needs to see a dentist if they only have one tooth, but one tooth can get a cavity if it's not properly taken care of. Plus, babies should get used to seeing a dentist, making their later dental visits easier on them and you.

We treat children of all ages with patience and compassion. Some of the services we offer include:

• Preventative care
• Cavity treatment
• Treatment for gum disease
• Checking on teeth and jaw development
• Oral cancer screenings
• Mouth guards for teeth grinding
• Habit counseling for parents, such as pacifier use
• Information about baby bottle cavities

Why is a Kid’s Teeth Cleaning Essential?

Beginning at around age two, your child should have a teeth cleaning during their regular pediatric dental exam. They are extremely important in helping to prevent plaque from building up on teeth, which can lead to decay and gum disease. Preventing decay can help your child avoid fillings, which few children like having done. We'll explain the procedure to your child in terms they can understand, ensuring them it will not hurt them.

Plaque buildup on your child's teeth is the main reason children may need gum disease treatment. If it's not removed, plaque can harden into tartar and irritate the gums. This is known as gingivitis and it can make the gums bleed slightly when your child brushes. A teeth cleaning and instruction in more effective dental hygiene for your child can stop gingivitis in its tracks. Ignoring gingivitis can lead to your child needing more aggressive periodontal treatment for a more advanced form of the disease.

You can help your child avoid gum disease by making sure they practice good oral hygiene, making sure they have regular dental exams and cleanings, and by making sure they eat a healthy diet that limits sugar and starches. We can help you with these things.

Why Does My Child Need Pediatric X-Rays?

It's only natural to worry about your child's exposure to radiation. Rest assured, modern x-ray equipment is quite safe. We use x-rays to diagnose decay and cracks that can't be seen otherwise. X-rays also let our pediatric dentists see permanent teeth before they erupt to spot any potential problems. We look at your child's dental history, risk for decay, and other dental issues when determining how often to take x-rays. We also follow the guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Bad Breath in Children

Like adults, children can also have chronic bad breath. All kids get bad breath occasionally, but they are some who have it all the time, regardless of what they eat. Kids with plaque buildup on their teeth and tongue can have bad breath. The cure can simply be better oral hygiene. If having your child brush their teeth twice a day, brush their tongue, and floss does not help, please call us. Another common cause of bad breath is decay. It could also be gum disease. A thorough pediatric dental exam can rule out any oral issues. We want your child to feel secure when interacting with their friends and classmates.

Why Would My Child Need an Oral Cancer Screening?

Fortunately, oral cancer is very rare in children, but it is not unheard of. Routine screenings are part of your child's exam since they are quick and easy. Your child's dentist will simply look at your child's lips, the inside of their checks, the roof of their mouth, their tongue, and their throat. The dentist may also feel for lumps. It won't hurt your child in any way. Early detection saves lives, so our dentists always look for anything unusual.

If you want your child to have a comprehensive pediatric dental exam in Chesapeake, contact us to arrange an appointment. We want to be a part of your child's healthy dental future. Every child deserves a smile that dazzles others.