A visit to the dentist, no matter how routine, can be stressful for any patient. This is especially true for children, who may already be nervous about the unfamiliar sounds, tools, and environment. To avoid making dental exams distressing for your kids, it’s important to find a team experienced in pediatric dentistry, with a reputation you can trust.
At any age, regular checkups are necessary to help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Learn what to expect during a children’s dental exam, so you know what to look for when choosing a dentist for your family.
Treating Adults vs. Children
While the basic process of examining, cleaning, and treating both adults and children is similar, a dentist with experience in pediatric dentistry is better equipped to deal with the needs of young patients. When your dentist stays up to date on the latest developments and techniques, they can more easily identify issues affecting juvenile dental health and work more effectively to minimize any pain or discomfort while treating your child.
What to Expect During a Children’s Dental Exam
Dental checkups for children are fairly similar to those for adults, with a few exceptions. At a standard children’s dental exam, you can expect the dental team to perform at least the following services:
- X-rays
- Oral exam
- Cleaning
- Suggestions for brushing, flossing, etc.
Your dentist will check that the teeth and gums are healthy, meeting all the criteria for the child’s age, and look for any signs of decay or other issues. They’ll also make recommendations for further treatment if necessary. That might include:
- Fillings and sealants
- Braces
- Mouth/Night guards
- Tooth replacement (in special cases)
Find the Right Dentist
When looking for a pediatric dentist, it’s important to select a team that can communicate effectively with adults, teens, and children. For kids who are nervous about all the lights, equipment, and unfamiliar surroundings, the right dentist and team can help to calm their fears and make the experience more positive. The additional knowledge and education that comes from practicing pediatric dentistry allows them to create an environment that is kid-friendly, relaxing, and educational for both patients and their guardians.
My Family Dentistry is trusted by generations of patients in Knoxville, Powell, and the surrounding communities. Dr. Wes and our team have years of experience in pediatric dentistry and enjoy working with kids of all ages. We’re committed to making every children’s dental exam as easy-going an experience as possible, so your child can form a lifelong positive attitude toward dental health. Contact us to set up your next visit.