At Greenhaven Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in comprehensive dental exams and x-rays for children throughout the Davis and Sacramento, CA area. Good oral health begins in the early years. Dr. Ho will perform a comprehensive exam on your child, diagnose any dental problems your child may have, review your treatment options, and answer any questions you might have so that you can make an informed decision regarding your child’s dental health.
The Importance of Dental Checkups
Do baby teeth really matter? They’re eventually going to fall out anyway. Believe it or not, those little chompers make a big difference. Healthy baby teeth are necessary for proper chewing and speech development. Severe dental problems in younger children can even damage the adult teeth that are buried underneath.
If your child has tooth decay, cracked teeth, malocclusion, or other dental abnormalities, regular checkups can detect these problems, so we can correct them before they become more severe.
How Often Do Kids Need Dental Checkups?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that all children visit a qualified pediatric dentist before their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. They should continue getting routine checkups every six months to prevent cavities and other serious problems.
What To Expect During A Routine Exam
Our friendly staff is mindful of apprehensive patients. We will do our best to put your child’s mind at ease and make the checkup process as stress-free as possible.
We’ll also give you a full review of your child’s mouth and work with you to create a treatment plan that addresses their unique dental needs.
- Show Your Child Around The Office
- Engage In Friendly Chit-Chat
- Clean Your Child’s Teeth & Gums
- Teach Your Child Healthy Hygiene Habits
- Ask About Eating & Drinking Habits
- Examine Their Gums, Cheeks & Tongue
- Assess Their Fluoride Intake
- Perform An X-Ray
Are Dental X-Rays Safe For Kids?
Yes. According to the American Dental Association, dental x-rays are safe for children. That’s because pediatric dentists use technologies and safety precautions to limit radiation exposure as much as possible. We use this diagnostic tool to detect, prevent, and treat problems early.
- Small Children May Be X-Rayed On Mom Or Dad’s Lap
- Lead Aprons & Thyroid Shield Are Used
- X-Rays Are Fast & Focused, Limiting Exposure Even More
- We Get A Thorough, Educational Picture Of The Whole Mouth
How To Prepare Your Child For A Trip To The Dentist
Is your little one feeling worried about their first dental checkup? Keep a positive tone and avoid making it sound like the dentist’s office is a bad or scary place. Rather than saying, “You have to go to the dentist tomorrow,” you could try saying, “You get to go to the dentist tomorrow!” or “Are you excited to go to the dentist tomorrow?”
Let kids know that the children’s dentist is here to help them have strong and healthy teeth. You may decide to take a trip to the library for positive stories about how dental checkups and x-rays work.
Pediatric Dental Exams In Sacramento & Davis
At Greenhaven Pediatric Dentistry, we are experts at providing dental x-rays and checkups to young patients. We work hard to make appointments a safe, friendly experience for anxious kids and children with special needs.
We will be happy to answer any questions about our services, pricing, and accepted insurance plans. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
