Pediatric Dental Exam

in Sunnyvale, TX and Mesquite, TX

OliveTree Dentistry

Pediatric dental exams offered by your trusted team at OliveTree Dentistry are an essential component of preventative dentistry designed to maintain long-term healthy smiles. We spare no effort to ensure our young patients receive quality, gentle care and have a positive experience they'll enjoy again and again!

Why Are Pediatric Dental Exams Necessary?

Routine pediatric dental exams allow us to detect problems early on when they're most treatable, preventing the need for involved and costly dental procedures down the road. They are also a wonderful opportunity to provide tips on maintaining your child’s clean and healthy smile.

Even though they will eventually fall out, keeping baby teeth healthy is important for your child's current and future oral and overall health. Baby teeth play a significant role in speech development and help with chewing, ensuring proper nutrition. Moreover, they hold the space needed for the adult teeth developing behind the scenes. Losing a baby tooth prematurely can result in the neighboring teeth shifting and tilting out of alignment, which causes crooked teeth or a crowded mouth, potentially requiring orthodontic treatment down the road.

When Should You Schedule Your Child's First Dental Exam?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends scheduling a child's visit to the dentist when the first little tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday. From that point on, most children require dental exams and professional cleanings every six months for optimal oral health. However, some children at a higher risk of developing oral health problems may require more frequent dental visits.

What Should You Expect During a Pediatric Dental Exam?

During the pediatric dental exam, we will evaluate every aspect of your child's oral health. We may use dental x-rays to capture detailed images of specific areas of your child's mouth to rule out any abnormalities or potential problems that would require follow-up treatment.

We will professionally clean your child's teeth to remove any plaque or tartar deposits during the visit and apply fluoride to those pearly whites to strengthen them and help keep tooth decay and cavities at bay. We will also evaluate your child's oral health care habits and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques.

What Happens After the Dental Exam?

Dr. Koshy will discuss your child's oral health with you, outlining any immediate concerns or preventive measures required. She may recommend dental sealants to reduce the risk of tooth decay. A fully personalized, comprehensive treatment plan will include recommendations for any procedures needed to enhance your child's oral health.