Many kids get nervous about dental visits. The right preparation can keep your child calm and relaxed during a checkup. Rest assured, you don't need a medical background to understand what goes on in a pediatric dental office. Routine pediatric dental care often remains simple and straightforward. Our team at Myriam Cerezo, DMD, Pediatric Dentist offers routine cleanings and checkups to keep your child's mouth healthy.
The Importance of Routine Dental Care
Dental care plays a vital role in overall health. Gum disease can lead to life-threatening health problems like heart disease. Tooth decay can put a patient's health at risk too. Researchers have found that dental problems are linked to diabetes and dementia. Fortunately, good oral hygiene can reduce your risk of serious health concerns. Dental care also prevents cavities, gum disease, and foul-smelling breath. Brushing and flossing keep your teeth looking healthy. Establishing good dental care habits during childhood can deliver lasting results. Parents can help children protect their oral health by making dental care a daily habit.
"Researchers have found that dental problems are linked to diabetes and dementia."
Planning Routine Dental Care
Routine exams and cleanings represent a must. Even patients who maintain good oral hygiene need regular checkups. Most patients should plan to see their dental provider every six months. During a checkup, the dentist examines the patient's teeth, often takes X-rays or performs other screenings, then administers an in-depth cleaning. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar — substances that increase the patient's risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing and flossing alone can't remove plaque buildup. Professional cleaning gets rid of stubborn plaque before it can cause cavities.
"Parents can help promote good behavior by modeling healthy dental habits."
What to Expect During a Checkup
During a routine pediatric visit, the dentist examines and cleans your child's teeth. If your child has a cavity, the provider makes arrangements to fill it. Minor dental problems, like chipped or cracked teeth, can usually be repaired in-office. A routine appointment might include preventive treatments like dental sealants. Dentists apply sealants to newly erupted molars to prevent decay. Sealants can help reduce a patient's risk of cavities. Many pediatric patients receive orthodontic evaluations as part of their routine childhood care.
"During a routine visit, the dentist examines and cleans your child's teeth."
Routine At-Home Dental Care
Parents can protect their children's oral health by encouraging daily brushing and flossing. Both children and adults should brush and floss twice daily. Ensure that your child flosses thoroughly and brushes for at least two minutes. Sloppy brushing can lead to tooth decay. It may be helpful to set a timer to make sure your child doesn't skimp on their oral hygiene. Avoid sugary drinks like juice or soda, and don't put your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup. Model good oral hygiene at home — brush or floss daily, and talk to your children about your dental appointments.
"Ensure that your child flosses thoroughly and brushes for at least two minutes."
Planning for Follow-Up Care
Not every dental procedure can be performed during a routine office visit. Sometimes, dentists may need to schedule another appointment. Patients might need to return another time for a filling or deep cleaning. Dentists also use follow-up appointments to monitor the results of complex dental procedures. Before each dental visit, check with the office to confirm the appointment, determine what information the patient needs to bring, and avoid eating or drinking during the hour before the appointment.
"If you need a follow-up visit, your provider can let you know when these visits will occur."
Treatments We Offer
Dental Cleanings & Exams
Thorough cleanings and comprehensive exams every 6 months to monitor your child's oral development.
Fluoride Varnish
Professional fluoride treatments that strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
Dental Sealants
Protective coatings applied to back teeth to prevent decay in hard-to-reach grooves.
Pediatric Dental X-Rays
Child-sized digital X-rays that use minimal radiation to detect hidden problems.
Space Maintainers
Devices that hold space for permanent teeth when baby teeth are lost early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Terms
Dental Checkup
An appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months.
Dental Prophylaxis
A thorough cleaning procedure that involves preventing the spread or continued growth of periodontal disease and gingivitis.
Dental Sealants
A solution of plastic material applied to the crown of the tooth to protect the areas within the ridges of teeth from infection.
Enamel
The hard calcified layer that covers the entire tooth and is subject to interaction with multiple substances.
Tartar
Forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that requires professional treatment to remove.
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Request Appointment (215) 942-9090Quality Pediatric Dental Services Can Transform Smiles
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