There are many dental problems and concerns that only a dentist can discover in the early stages – that’s why scheduling regular checkups and cleanings for your children is so important! As a Board-Certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Russell is highly qualified to handle the needs of all ages, from babies with brand-new teeth to teenagers who are close to graduating from high school. Better yet, our team’s approach is always an ideal match for each unique child’s personality, current age, and level of maturity.
We recommend that you bring your son or daughter in for a quick first visit before or around their first birthday so that they can become familiar with our office early on. In most cases, regular checkups and cleanings should begin at age three. Contact OPD Smiles today if you have any questions, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment.
What Happens During a Pediatric Checkup?
The nature of your child’s checkup will depend on their age at the time. For instance, this process will be relatively simple and gentle for babies. Dr. Russell will inspect any existing baby teeth, the gum tissue, and their oral structures to identify any developmental concerns. He will also provide parents with detailed instructions for how to care for their son or daughter’s oral hygiene at home.
Once children are old enough to sit still for a checkup under their own power, their appointments will be more in-depth. Our team may recommend the capture of digital X-rays, the application of dental sealants, repair for any tooth defects or cavities, and the possibility of Phase 1 orthodontic treatment. Our goal is to form a comprehensive understanding of your child’s current oral health state and address concerns early on in order to protect them from more extensive damage and pain down the road.
What Happens During a Pediatric Cleaning?
Pediatric dental cleanings are meant to keep baby and adult teeth free of harmful plaque, which is a sticky, colorless substance that contains harmful bacteria. During these appointments, our talented team will also polish the tooth enamel (leaving your child’s smile feeling smooth and clean), remove minor staining, provide fluoride applications as needed for an extra boost of oral strength, and (if the patient is old enough) walk them through kind, easy-to-understand instructions regarding how to brush and floss at home.