Dental Exams Specialist

What are dental exams?

A dental exam is a preventive measure that assesses your child’s oral health. During a dental exam, your child’s provider professionally cleans their teeth and checks for potential problems like cavities and gum disease. 

A dental exam might also include X-rays or other diagnostic procedures, depending on your child’s age, symptoms, and oral health history.

Why are dental exams performed?

Routine dental exams help preserve your child’s physical and oral well-being. That’s because many systemic diseases, like lupus and diabetes, first present symptoms in the mouth. 

Aside from reducing the risk of potentially serious health problems, dental exams educate your child on the importance of preventive measures like brushing, flossing, and eating a balanced diet.

When should children have their first pediatric dental exam?

The team at Pediatric Dental Group of New York recommends all children undergo their first dental exam by the time they turn one, or when their first baby tooth breaks through the gum line, whichever happens first. 

Babies and toddlers may not comprehend everything that occurs during a pediatric dental exam, but it’s important to expose them to oral health care at an early age. Doing so can significantly reduce dental fear and anxiety while emphasizing the importance of oral hygiene.

What happens during a dental exam?

During a pediatric dental exam, your child’s provider:

• Evaluates their oral health and oral hygiene
• Determines their risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues
• Removes stains and deposits from their teeth
• Checks their jaw and bite for potential problems
• Assesses the need for fluoride treatment or sealants
• Takes a series of oral X-rays

During your child’s exam, let their provider know about any unusual symptoms they’re experiencing, such as sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, or a toothache. In addition, let the team know if your child has an underlying health problem like diabetes or kidney disease as these and other issues can directly affect their oral health.

How long do dental exams take?

Dental exams typically take between 45-60 minutes. If your child has cavities, gum disease, or other potentially serious oral health problems that require immediate treatment, the appointment may run longer.

If your child is in need of a dental exam, make an appointment at the Pediatric Dental Group of New York by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.