Dental Exams for Kids in Surprise AZ

Did you know that dental exams for kids are extremely important? Starting your child on regular routine visits to the Pediatric Dentist will help ensure they have excellent oral health and a beautiful smile for the rest of their lives. 

Because most people miss hard-to-reach areas in their mouth, creating the perfect environment for debris, bacteria, plaque, and even tartar, we will teach your child the proper way to brush and floss.

At Surprise Pediatric Dentistry we have the tools, experience, and knowledge necessary to ensure your mouth is clean, from corner to corner. Routine dental cleanings in Surprise, AZ can greatly reduce your risk for bad breath, tooth decay, cavity formation, oral infections, and even periodontal gum disease. Schedule your dental cleaning nearby today!

About Dental Examinations

Would you be able to diagnose gingivitis if your child was suffering? For many patients, the answer is no. However, at Surprise Pediatric Dentistry we have years of education, experience and knowledge dealing with a wide range of conditions. During a dental examination in Surprise, AZ, we thoroughly examine your smile, gums and overall oral health to check for any complications or risk factors. Based on our findings, a treatment plan can be created to address any issues we may find.

Schedule Surprise, AZ Dental Exam & Cleaning Today

When is the last time your child had a routine oral examination and dental cleaning in Surprise, AZ? If they haven’t visited a professional for routine dental care in at least 6 months, give us a call today at Surprise Pediatric Dentistry. We would be more than happy to get your children on our schedule for some routine, professional care.

Dental Exam Q & A

What is a dental exam?

Our dental exams for kids are a routine screening procedure used to check on your child’s oral health and well-being. It presents an opportunity to catch potentially serious health problems like tooth decay and gum disease early on before they cause tooth loss, bone decay, or other issues.

In addition, dental exams allow your child to build a relationship with their dentist. Studies show that children who trust their dentist experience better outcomes and less anxiety during treatment.

What happens during a dental exam?

At Surprise Pediatric Dentistry, a dental cleaning involves several basic steps, including:

Review of your child’s oral health history

If your child is visiting Surprise Pediatric Dentistry for the first time, the team sets aside time to review their oral health history. If your child takes any prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements regularly, let their provider know. It’s also important to alert the team to any chronic health problems your child has, like asthma or diabetes.

A comprehensive oral screening

After a review of your child’s oral health history, a dental hygienist conducts a comprehensive oral screening.

Your child’s dental hygienist uses a circular, handheld mirror to examine their teeth, gums, and mouth, looking for signs of inflammation or decay. Early identification and treatment of potential problems can prevent the need for more complex procedures later on.

Oral X-rays

Oral X-rays are a type of diagnostic imaging used to detect potential problems that are invisible to the naked eye, including impacted teeth, a damaged jawbone, abscesses, and decay between the teeth.

Oral X-rays use low doses of radiation to provide detailed images of your child’s tooth roots, jawbone, and alveolar bone. The results are instant, so your child’s dentist can review them with you on the same day as their oral exam.

Recommendations for treatment

Following a comprehensive oral exam and X-rays, the team at Surprise Pediatric Dentistry can make recommendations for treatment. Typically, a dental cleaning every six months is enough to prevent cavities and gum disease. If necessary, the team might recommend fluoride treatment, sealants, or orthodontics with FASTBRACES®.

What if my child experiences dental anxiety?

If your child experiences dental anxiety, they may find it difficult to sit still during an exam. The team at Surprise Pediatric Dentistry understands.

To help your child feel comfortable and relaxed, they offer sedation dentistry. This type of treatment is particularly beneficial for children who are fussy or have special needs.

If it’s time for your child to have a dental exam, schedule an appointment at Surprise Pediatric Dentistry. Book online or call the office today.

Dental Cleaning Q & A

What is a dental cleaning?

A dental cleaning is a routine procedure used to remove plaque and tartar from beneath your child’s gum line and the surfaces of their teeth. Dental cleaning typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. It’s an easy and effective way to keep your child’s smile healthy and problem-free.

What happens during a dental cleaning?

At Surprise Pediatric Dentistry, a dental cleaning involves several basic steps, including:

Removal of plaque and tartar

The first step of a dental cleaning involves your child’s dental hygienist carefully scraping plaque and tartar from their teeth. Plaque is a thin film of saliva, food particles, and bacteria. It hardens over time, forming tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove and increases your child’s risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

During the removal of plaque and tartar, it’s normal for your child to hear some scraping sounds. This is nothing to worry about. It simply means there’s a build-up of plaque in that area.

Tooth polishing with a gritty toothpaste

After your child’s dental hygienist removes the plaque and tartar, your child’s teeth are polished with a gritty toothpaste. The special toothpaste provides a deep clean and removes any excess plaque that was not removed during the cleaning. In addition, the gritty toothpaste buffs your child’s tooth enamel, making it appear more healthy and vibrant.

Professional flossing

Last, your child’s hygienist professionally flosses their teeth. This safely removes food particles from the tiny interproximal areas between their teeth. It massages their gums, too, lowering the risk of gum disease and inflammation.

Fluoride treatment

If your child has weak tooth enamel or several cavities, the team might recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens and fortifies the teeth, lowering the risk of further decay and damage.

How many dental cleanings should my child get each year?

The team at Surprise Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a dental cleaning appointment for your child at least twice a year. Many oral health problems present few obvious symptoms early on. Routine cleanings can alert you to potential issues before they progress.