Teeth Cleaning and Exam in Aliso Viejo, CA

Preventing Problems Before They Start

The health of your child's teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of their entire body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep their smile looking its best, visiting your Aliso Viejo pediatric dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful.

By routinely seeing your pediatric dentist for exams and cleanings, you can:

• Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath
• Save money by avoiding costly and extensive dental procedures
• Keep your child's teeth white by reducing staining from food and drinks
• Shorten the time spent in your dentist's office
• Have a smile that will last a lifetime

The Exam

During your child's exam, your dentist will thoroughly examine your child's teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. Your dentist may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of their teeth and gums. Whether these X-rays are traditional or digital, the images provided will help your dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.

Professional Cleanings

Your child's dental hygienist will begin their cleaning by exploring the surface of their teeth to determine if they have any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to make sure their gums adhere tightly to their teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring.

Next, your child's hygienist will carefully clean their teeth with a variety of tools to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from their teeth. Then their hygienist will floss your child's teeth, use a polishing compound, and apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren't painful, but if they have any anxiety about their dental exam, be sure to let the hygienist know. They may offer several sedation options to ensure their comfort. If your pediatric dentist or hygienist finds tooth decay or gum disease, they will talk to you about changing your child's brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments. If your child's teeth and gums appear to be healthy, your pediatric dentist will probably recommend that you continue their brushing and flossing routine as usual.