Preventive dental care protects your child’s smile

Regular dental exams and cleanings not only improve your child’s long-term oral health but also help lower future dental costs. (That’s a win-win!) It’s never too early to start building the foundation for a healthy smile.

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Creating beautiful smiles that last a lifetime

Regular dental exams and cleanings are a key component of preventive dental care. Your child’s mouth is constantly changing—by carefully examining and thoroughly cleaning their teeth at least twice a year, we can monitor these changes and keep your child’s smile shining bright.

Dental exams

During a visual examination, a board-certified pediatric dentist evaluates your child’s mouth and locates areas of decay or cavities on their teeth. The doctor also examines your child’s gum tissue, jaw, and bite to identify any potential issues. You will be provided with age-appropriate home care instructions for your child, including demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques and making diet recommendations.

Dental cleanings

Pediatric dental cleanings promote healthy teeth and gums by removing built-up plaque and tartar, eliminating the bacteria that can lead to decay and gum disease. Once your child is old enough to handle the procedure, their teeth will be cleaned and polished by a licensed dental hygienist using tools that are sized specifically for children’s mouths. We recommend that your child comes in for dental cleanings at least twice a year.

Digital radiographs or x-rays

To get a complete and accurate picture of your child’s oral health and to detect any issues, digital radiographs or x-rays may periodically be taken. Our pediatric dentistry offices are equipped with the latest technology to make the dental x-ray process as safe as possible for kids, including digital radiography that reduces radiation exposure by 80-90%.

What to expect

Southmoor’s patient-centered approach ensures that your child will get top-quality care at every dental exam—and that as a parent, you will get answers to any questions you have about your child’s oral health.

If it’s your child’s first visit with us

We’ll assess your child’s overall dental health and development, including the risk of cavities, gum disease, or other issues through a visual examination while talking them through each step. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend children have their first dental visit and exam by age one.

Discuss healthy habits

We’ll address appropriate home care (healthy oral habits begin at home!), discuss your child’s diet, and recommend dental hygiene products if needed.

Age-based guidance

We’re happy to provide age-based guidance and counseling on oral habits, including thumb sucking and pacifier use.

For infants and toddlers

Wondering if your infant or toddler can sit still for a dental exam? We’ve got you covered with a tried-and-true method that works. You will sit knee-to-knee with the care provider during the dental exam, allowing your child to comfortably lay back between the two of you in a safe, nurturing environment until they graduate to the dentist’s chair.

Introducing cleaning

Dental cleanings typically begin in the toddler years when more baby teeth have emerged.

Addressing anxiety

There may be some tears, and that’s okay. Our pediatric specialists will do everything possible to calm your child’s fears during their exam.

After the exam

Once the exam is completed, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions about your child’s oral health, including the recommended preventive care plan and any upcoming dental procedures. With our patient-centered approach, we want to ensure parents leave the office well-informed (and smiling, too!).

We will book any necessary follow-up appointments and can book your child’s next exam and cleaning for you as well.

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