Pediatric Dental Checkup Q&AVisalia, CA

Pediatric Dental Checkup Q&A

When should my child have pediatric dental checkups?

Schedule your child’s first pediatric dental checkup at Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids when their first tooth comes in, or at 12 months old, whichever happens first. Generally, most children need pediatric dental checkups at least twice a year (every six months), which may include an exam, X-rays, teeth cleaning, or fluoride treatment.

But, if your child has specific oral health problems like tooth decay, gum disease, or other issues, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill might recommend a different checkup schedule.

What can I expect at my child’s pediatric dental checkup?

During a pediatric dental checkup, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill evaluates all aspects of your child’s oral health. This includes an exam of:

• Soft tissues within the mouth
• Soft tissues outside the mouth (neck and head)
• Temporomandibular joints
• Gums
• Teeth

A pediatric dental checkup also evaluates the areas that aren’t visible with the naked eye, like the tooth roots and jaw where they’re anchored. To do this, Dr. Shandhu or Dr. Shergill takes X-rays of the whole mouth. Your child might not need X-rays at every pediatric checkup, so Dr. Shandhu or Dr. Shergill considers your child’s age, risk for cavities, and current oral health to determine the ideal X-ray schedule.

How often should my child have teeth cleaning?

Most children need teeth cleaning every six months, which is usually the same frequency as pediatric dental checkups. Often, children have their checkup with Dr. Shandhu or Dr. Shergill and their teeth cleaning during the same visit for convenience.

Does my child need a fluoride treatment?

It depends on whether your child is getting enough fluoride from their main source of drinking water. If your child drinks mainly bottled water, for example, they likely don’t get enough fluoride to protect their teeth from decay, even if they use a fluoridated toothpaste every day. Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill might also recommend a fluoride treatment if your child is cavity-prone.

If your child needs fluoride treatments, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill can do an in-office treatment at Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids. Fluoride treatment can come in gel, varnish, or foam forms. Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill applies the fluoride to the teeth, and then your child generally must avoid drinking or eating for about 30 minutes to allow for full absorption. Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill might also prescribe fluoride tablets or rinses for home use.

For pediatric dentistry exams, teeth cleaning, X-rays, and comprehensive care from a highly experienced kids special dentistry team, call Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids.

Children’s routine exams can save your child’s current tooth, and also their future oral health. Book an appointment at Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids by phone today at (559) 733-4470