Routine Exams, Cleanings, and X-Rays

Good oral hygiene is an important part of keeping your child healthy, and regular dental exams are a key part of that. From regular checkups to cleanings and X-rays, these dental exams provide a comprehensive overview of your child’s oral health. Knowing what to expect during the process can help you feel more informed and prepared for your child’s visit to the dentist.

At Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry, we want your child to grow up with strong and healthy teeth. We specialize in giving your child the best dental care possible, and our goal is to ensure they receive the highest quality of care while having a positive experience at our dental office. If you are searching for a kids dentist near me, Phoenix pediatric dentist, or pediatric dentist Chandler, AZ, we can help. To schedule an appointment, call (602) 935-7427 or complete the online booking form.

Routine Exams, Cleanings, and X-Rays​

Routine Exams and Check-ups

Routine exams and check-ups are essential for keeping your child’s teeth healthy. At Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend that children have their first dental exam by age one or after their first tooth comes in. 

During a routine exam, Dr.Martinez will examine your child’s teeth and gums, check for any signs of decay, and look for potential problems that could develop in the future. You will be given tips on oral hygiene and care to help you keep your child’s mouth healthy.

Regular check-ups will also help your child get comfortable with the dentist’s office before they are old enough to receive additional treatments. Regular check-ups every six months help us monitor your child’s dental health and development.

Teeth Cleanings

Teeth cleanings are an essential part of keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, keeping them as clean and healthy as possible is important. Regular brushing and flossing should be done at home, but professional teeth cleanings from a dentist can help remove bacteria and plaque that can cause cavities.

Plaque is a sticky film that forms on tooth enamel and can lead to decay if not removed. During teeth cleanings, plaque and tartar will be removed with special tools, leaving your child’s teeth sparkling clean. Professional cleanings also help prevent gum disease and halitosis (bad breath).

Gum Disease and Kids

Periodontal disease is not just a problem for adults; kids can also develop gum disease if proper oral hygiene is not practiced. In the early stages, gum disease may be painless, so it is important to watch for signs such as gum redness, swelling, and bleeding. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are an essential part of maintaining the health of your child’s teeth. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Enamel is made up of tiny crystals that are constantly weakening and reformulating. Fluoride treatments help to reformulate those crystals, making them stronger and more resistant to decay.

Topical fluoride treatments are applied at our dentist’s office and help to remineralize tooth enamel. Keeping enamel strong and healthy helps to prevent cavities. Fluoride treatments are recommended every six months in addition to daily brushing and flossing.

Dental X-Rays

At Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry, we may recommend X-rays for your child as part of a comprehensive exam. We use the latest in dental radiograph technology with minimal exposure so you can be sure your child is safe during their visit. X-rays are a safe and effective way to diagnose any potential problems developing in the mouth, such as cavities or impacted teeth. X-rays can also help us see any damage that has occurred due to trauma or injury, detect abnormal growths, and reveal an early sign of gum disease. 

Crowding and Bite Issues

As your child grows and develops, it is important to keep an eye out for any potential alignment problems that can arise with their teeth. Crowding, crooked teeth, or severe bite issues can all affect the health of your child’s mouth and make eating, breathing, and proper brushing and flossing difficult. Early detection is key in preventing more serious problems from occurring in the future.

Setting Your Child Up for Success

Regular dental cleanings, exams, and X-rays are essential to keeping your child’s mouth healthy. At Big Apple Dentistry, we provide comprehensive care from infancy through adolescence, focusing on prevention and education. With the help of our dedicated staff, your child can develop lifelong healthy habits that will keep their teeth clean and strong for years to come.

If you are searching for a kids dentist near me, Phoenix pediatric dentist, or pediatric dentist Chandler, AZ, we can help. To schedule an appointment, call (602) 935-7427 or complete the online booking form

We look forward to meeting you!

Summary

  • During a routine exam, Dr.Martinez will examine your child’s teeth and gums, check for any signs of decay, and look for potential problems that could develop in the future.
  • The earlier you bring your child to the dentist, the better! Regular check-ups will help your child get comfortable with the dentist’s office before they are old enough to receive additional treatments.
  • Regular brushing and flossing should be done at home, but professional teeth cleanings from a dentist can help remove bacteria and plaque that can cause cavities.
  • During teeth cleanings, plaque and tartar will be removed with special tools, leaving your child’s teeth sparkling clean.
  • Watch for signs of gum disease, such as gum redness, swelling, and bleeding.
  • Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Children should receive fluoride treatments every six months. 
  • X-rays are a safe and effective way to diagnose any potential problems developing in the mouth, such as cavities or impacted teeth.
  • Crowding, crooked teeth, or severe bite issues can all affect the health of your child’s mouth and make eating, breathing, and proper brushing and flossing difficult.

Routine Dental Exam and Cleaning FAQ

How Often Should a Child Have Teeth Cleaning?

The American Dental Association recommends that children receive checkups and professional cleanings every six months. These regular appointments help ensure your child’s teeth are kept as clean and healthy as possible.

How Long Does It Take To Clean Kid's Teeth at the Dentist?

The amount of time required for a dental cleaning can vary. For children, a standard cleaning can take between 10 to 45 minutes, though the entire appointment may last 60 minutes or longer. The duration of the cleaning will depend on the child, their needs, and how comfortable they are with the dentist working on their teeth.

Can Kids Eat After Dental Cleaning?

After a regular dental cleaning, your child can eat right away unless they’ve had a fluoride treatment. In that case, your child should wait 30 minutes before eating so that the fluoride can take effect and be absorbed by their teeth.

Is Fluoride Safe for My Child?

Yes, fluoride is safe and highly beneficial for children’s teeth. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Topical fluoride treatments are applied at our office and help to remineralize tooth enamel.

Do Kids Need X-Rays?

X-Rays can be beneficial in diagnosing any potential problems that may be developing in the mouth, such as cavities or impacted teeth. X-rays can also help detect trauma and abnormal growths and reveal early signs of gum disease.