At Dr. Kwon Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend oral health exams twice a year, preferably during your child’s bi-annual teeth cleaning.
Our pediatric dentists will examine your child for abnormalities in the development of their primary teeth, any adult teeth that may be surfacing, and plaque build-up.
Why We Perform Dental Health Exams
Dental health exams allow dentists to take a closer look at the overall health of your child’s mouth. The exam includes a routine cleaning, evaluation of the risk of tooth decay, and discussion of your child’s oral hygiene and eating habits. This appointment helps us detect issues early so they can be treated or even prevented altogether. Once the exam is completed, your child’s dentist will bring up any concerns they see, talk through any changes to make in your child’s dental hygiene routine, and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques.
When Is It Time for A First Oral Health Exam?
Many parents may be wondering when their child should see the dentist for the first time. No worries – we’ve got your answer! The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your young child to the dentist within six months of their first tooth coming through and no later than their first birthday. It’s never too early to be concerned with oral health, and it’s easy to remember – first tooth, first birthday, first dental visit!
At this stage of your child’s smile, your dentist will look at their feeding practices, thumb-sucking and pacifier habits, teething, and mouth cleanliness. These are all concerns that can impact your child’s oral health for life, and we want to help your child have a lifetime of healthy smiles!
What to Expect During Your Child’s Exam
Education is a priority, and it is our goal at Dr. Kwon Pediatric Dentistry to help your child learn the importance of practicing daily oral hygiene. Our team will show your child how to brush and floss properly, and we’ll discuss proper nutrition for oral health.
In any of our four northeast Atlanta offices, our dental hygienists will perform your child’s cleanings and overall dental health exam. Throughout the exam, they will use various instruments and devices to gently clean stains, tartar, and plaque from your child’s teeth. Regularly scheduled cleanings also act as a discovery time as our team demonstrates proper hygiene with your child. Our focus is education and prevention, so we may recommend special preventative treatments, such as fluoride and sealants, that will benefit your child’s oral health.
During the exam, your dentist will check your child’s teeth, jaw, and oral tissues, including examining primary or baby teeth and any adult teeth that may be surfacing. Our team will explain their findings and let you know if your child needs follow-up treatment.
We perform X-rays only when necessary to help locate cavities or detect other abnormalities. If your child has any decay, our dentists will recommend the appropriate treatment options.
At the end of the appointment, your child will be able to pick a prize to take home as a little way of letting them know we are proud to have them as part of the Dr. Kwon patient family!
Children’s Oral Exams FAQs
How Can I Get My Child Ready for a Dental Visit?
Schedule the appointment at a time of day when he or she is well-rested and most likely to cooperate. Let your child know the dentist will use special tools to keep his teeth healthy. Avoid sharing any negative words or experiences with your child.
How Often Should I Bring My Child in for Dental Cleanings?
Routine dental cleanings are essential for preventive care. In general, we recommend cleanings twice a year for all pediatric patients in our care. Some children need more frequent dental visits because of increased risk of tooth decay, unusual growth patterns, or poor oral hygiene. Your pediatric dentist will let you know the best appointment schedule for your child.