What to Know About Dental Exams for Children
To start the year off right, parents should schedule a dental exam as part of the dentistry services recommended to support a child’s oral health. Dental exams are useful for children of all ages and our dentist provides high quality pediatric dentistry and back to school dental exams for children and adolescents. Learn more about our pediatric dental exams from our Kitchener dentist today!
How Often Should A Child Receive a Dental Exam?
Our trusted dentist Dr. Jitendra Gangwani, as well as our dental associates, recommend that children over three years of age receive regular dental examinations. A dental exam may or may not be accompanied by a dental cleaning. Generally, children should receive an exam and cleaning twice a year.
What Happens During a Dental Exam?
The dentist will examine the surface areas of teeth, look for cavities, and identify any issues with the enamel and strength of teeth. In addition, they may also note signs of gum disease or gum inflammation. During an examination, x-rays may be taken. X-rays are usually taken on a child’s initial visit to the dental office and when new issues arise. X-rays allow a dentist to check on the health and identify issues with teeth and the jaw at our dental office.
Our dentist may probe the gums during an exam, as well as gently assess the health of glands on a child’s neck. The dentist will also discuss any findings during a one-on-one consultation and provide guidance on necessary oral health strategies, such as brushing or flossing, with parents and children.
When Might a Child Need a Dental Exam?
A dental exam is often scheduled before or when children return to school. However, dentists may also recommend an exam or x-rays when child experiences:
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold substances
- A sports injury
- Pain with chewing
- Bleeding gums
Discomfort with cold or hot drinks or foods may be associated with cavities. Pain and bleeding gums may be due to gum disease or other issues. Active children and those involved in sports may receive a blunt force trauma injury that can impact the integrity of the teeth and jaw.
To prevent a sports injury, our Kitchener dentist may recommend a sports mouth guard for children involved in hockey, football, or other contact sports. Speak to our dentist to find out more about sports mouth guards for hockey and other school sports today.
Schedule Pediatric Dental Exam Today!
Good oral health begins at an early age. Our dental team specializes in pediatric dentistry and offers pediatric exams and sports mouth guards. Other services include exams and cleanings, functional and restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, sedation dentistry, and Invisalign. Whether this is your child’s first time to the dentist or they are regular patients, you can trust your child’s oral care to the experienced and friendly dentistry team at Kitchener East Family Dental.
Is your child anxious about visiting the dentist? Comment below or contact 519-578-2419 to learn of the dental services and extra care our team takes to address the specific needs of children at our dental office.