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Regular Dental Visits
Common
Questions/Answers
Q: How often
should a child see the dentist?
A: The American Academy of Pediatric
Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a
year for most children. Some children need more
frequent dental visits because of increased risk of
tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral
hygiene. We will let you know the best appointment
schedule for your child.
Q:
Why visit the dentist twice a year
when my child has never had a cavity?
A: Regular dental visits help your
child stay cavity-free. Teeth cleanings remove debris
that build upon the teeth, irritate the gums and cause
decay. Fluoride treatments renew the fluoride content
in the enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing
cavities. Hygiene instructions improve your child's
brushing and flossing, leading to cleaner teeth and
healthier gums.
Tooth decay isn’t the only reason for
a dental visit. We provide an ongoing assessment of
changes in your child’s oral health. For example, your
child may need additional fluoride, dietary changes, or
sealants for ideal dental health. We may identify
orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the
teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Q:
What happens at a child’s dental
check-up?
A: We will review your child’s
medical and dental history. We gently examine your
child's teeth, oral tissues, and jaws. The teeth will be
cleaned and polished, followed by the application of a
fluoride solution.
The dentist won’t talk just to you about dental health;
he/she will talk to your child with easily
understandable words, pictures, and ideas. Your child
will be motivated to take responsibility for a healthy
smile.
Q:
Will x-rays be taken at every
appointment?
A: No. Our dentists, acting in
accord with guidelines from the American Academy of
Pediatric Dentistry, recommend x-rays only when
necessary to protect your child’s dental health. For
example, x-rays may be needed to diagnose tooth decay or
abnormalities, or, they may be required for orthodontic
treatment.
Q: How can I help
my child enjoy good dental health?
A: The following steps will help
your child be part of the cavity-free generation:
1.
Beware of frequent snacking
2.
Brush effectively twice a day with a
fluoride toothpaste
3.
Floss once a day
4.
Have sealants applied when appropriate
5.
Seek regular dental check-ups
6.
Assure proper fluoride through drinking
water, fluoride products or fluoride supplements.
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