Pediatric Dental Checkups
It's important to schedule regular dental checkups for everyone in your family to keep their smiles healthy and maintain optimal oral health. At Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we recommend that all children receive regular dental checkups every six months. These checkups are a crucial part of pediatric dental care, helping to prevent dental issues before they become serious.
What to Expect During a Pediatric Dental Checkup
As leading providers of pediatric dentistry in Lynn, Lynnfield, and Salem, we emphasize the importance of thorough dental care. Here’s what you can expect during a typical new patient hygiene and cleaning appointment:
- Warm Welcome: Our front staff will greet you, gather necessary information, and answer any initial questions you may have about child dental care.
- Dental Hygienist Greeting: Your dental hygienist will meet you in the waiting room.
- X-rays and Photos: If needed, we will take dental X-rays or photos to assess the overall health of your child’s mouth and accurately diagnose any issues.
- Teeth Cleaning and Fluoride Treatment: Your hygienist will perform a teeth cleaning, polish, floss, and apply fluoride to protect your child’s teeth.
- Periodontal Charting: We will record the health of your child’s gums and overall oral condition.
- Dental Exam: You will meet with the doctor for a comprehensive exam and discuss any concerns or areas that may need attention.
- Cost Estimate and Insurance Consultation: If any treatment is needed, we will consult with your insurance company to provide an estimate or discuss our Dental Savings Plan if you don’t have insurance.
- Scheduling Follow-ups: Schedule any necessary treatments or your next six-month cleaning appointment.
Regular pediatric dental checkups offer numerous benefits. They play a crucial role in the prevention of dental diseases by ensuring that children’s teeth are regularly cleaned and examined. Early detection of potential issues allows for prompt treatment, preventing minor problems from becoming major concerns. Additionally, these regular visits help instill good oral hygiene habits in children, promoting lifelong dental health and a positive attitude toward dental care.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s Checkup?
Broad Smiles – Lynn, MA — Call us or schedule online.
Broad Smiles – Lynnfield, MA — Call us or schedule online.
Broad Smiles – Salem, MA — Call us or schedule online.
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Why are regular dental checkups important?
Regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining your child’s oral health. These checkups help detect oral health issues early, such as oral cancer screenings and digital X-rays, to identify hidden problems like cavities and bone loss. Professional cleanings are also crucial to remove plaque and bacteria that daily brushing misses.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss, and early intervention is essential. During a checkup, the dental hygienist measures the gum “pockets” around each tooth and uses X-rays to spot areas of bone recession. This thorough examination helps in early detection and prevention.
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How often should you get pediatric dental checkups?
The American Dental Association recommends that regular dental checkups be performed every six months. On the first visit, a complete health history is taken to understand past and current health. These regular checkups are essential for monitoring any changes in oral health and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Six months is generally the right amount of time for plaque and tartar to accumulate, necessitating another cleaning. For children with a history of gum disease or heavy buildup, visits might be needed every 3-4 months to manage periodontitis. Regular visits help ensure your child’s oral health is maintained effectively.
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What are the signs of oral cancer?
Oral cancer can appear in various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, and throat. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Sore, swelling, lumps, or thick patches in or around your mouth
- A sensation of a lump or object in your throat
- Numbness or pain in any part of your mouth
- Loose teeth without a dental cause
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Red or white lesions in your mouth or on your lips
- Difficulty moving your jaw, swallowing, or speaking
- Ear pain without hearing loss
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, over half of those diagnosed with oral cancer in the U.S. survive beyond five years, but early detection significantly improves outcomes.
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Why are brushing and flossing important?
Brushing and flossing do more than just make your mouth feel clean; they play a crucial role in disrupting the biofilm of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Removing this sticky film helps prevent cavities and gum disease. It’s important to brush twice a day for at least two minutes and to floss once daily.
To make flossing a habit, try linking it to a daily routine, such as flossing in the shower or during your morning commute. Discuss with your hygienist the best products for your child’s oral care.
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What are other preventative care dental strategies?
Regular dental checkups include several preventative services that are essential for maintaining oral health. These include:
- Dental Sealants: Applying sealants to the deep grooves and pits in your back teeth can reduce the risk of cavities by making these areas easier to clean.
- Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, reduces sensitivity, and can reverse the early stages of tooth decay. While typically covered for children, adults can also benefit from fluoride treatments. Our adult patients can get fluoride treatment for only $29.
- Oral Cancer Screenings: Early detection of oral cancer is crucial. During every checkup, we perform a cancer screening to identify any early signs of this disease.
- Diagnostic X-rays: Periodic X-rays help us detect new areas of decay or bone loss around your teeth, allowing for early and less invasive treatment.
These preventative measures are part of our comprehensive approach to child dental care at Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics.
Schedule Pediatric Dental Checkups with Caring Dentists
Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics focuses on providing dental care for children of all ages. As parents ourselves, we understand the challenges families face with busy schedules. We have designed a straightforward process to ensure a positive dental experience for the entire family. Regular dental checkups are crucial for your child's oral health. Schedule an appointment today to keep your child's smile healthy and bright.
