THE BEST PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE REQUIRES THOROUGH EVALUATIONS
About Dental Examinations
At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, every child will receive a thorough exam by a pediatric dentist.
What is an oral exam?
During an oral exam, our dentists look for signs of cavities and gum disease, typically using a small mirror to see the teeth and soft tissues from different angles. This process allows the dentist to evaluate your child's oral and dental health condition, evaluate the child's risk for tooth decay, root decay, and gum or bone disease. The dentist will also check the bite and jaw for any issues.
Why are regular exams important?
Having regular exams are important for every child in order to detect and prevent problems before conditions become more serious. When oral and dental health problems are left untreated, the resulting damage and conditions may require more invasive and expensive treatments to correct.
How often should a child have regular dental examinations?
The general recommendation for patients of all ages is to have a dental exam every six months. However, our pediatric dentists may recommend more frequent visits if your child has certain conditions.
If your child has not had a dental examination by a pediatric dentist in the last 6 months, book an appointment at Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry. Our offices are conveniently located in Katy, Humble, Memorial City (Bunker Hill), and Conroe to serve kids and families across the Houston metroplex. Each of our four dental clinics shares the same commitment to providing every child with the best dental care possible.
When should my child receive their first dental examination?
The AAPD recommends every child visit the dentist when the first tooth erupts or by his or her first birthday. For more information about your child's first dental appointment, read what our pediatric dentists have to say about early dental visits and then book your child's FREE infant exam*. At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, our entire team of dental professionals love to help parents get started with the comprehensive and compassionate care your baby needs.
*Free infant dental exam at Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry or Bunker Hill Pediatric Dentistry is valid for new patients only. Exam must be scheduled prior to baby's first birthday. Not valid with any other offer.
HEALTHY SMILES AND HYGIENE TREATMENTS MAKE FOR HAPPY KIDS
Dental Cleanings & Hygiene Treatment
At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, routine visits include professional dental cleanings in a comfortable and interactive environment.
What should I expect from a pediatric dental cleaning or hygiene treatment?
At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, cleanings are always performed by one of our Registered Dental Hygienists with specialized experience providing care for children of all ages. The hygienist will use specialized tools to remove buildup, stains and then polish your child's teeth. Flossing and rinsing come next to remove anything left over from the previous cleaning steps. Your child may be given a further rinse that contains fluoride as well.
Why is a professional cleaning necessary?
A professional cleaning is necessary because even the best at-home oral and dental hygiene can still leave behind some plaque. Plaque eventually hardens and becomes tartar, and both need to be removed regularly with professional cleanings in order to prevent tooth decay and other health complications.
Additionally, the polishing performed during regular dental cleanings protects your child's teeth in ways that regular brushing and flossing cannot. If you have any questions about the tools or treatments used during a cleaning at Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, please ask the dentist or hygienist during your next visit. Our team of dental professionals wants every child and parent to be empowered with the knowledge and resources you need to enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.
STRONG, HEALTHY TEETH NEED MORE THAN JUST MILK
Fluoride Treatments For Kids
At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, a routine dental visit includes fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and protect teeth against cavities.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water and foods. Commonly used in dentistry, a fluoride varnish is applied directly to teeth as an effective treatment for preventing and even reversing dental caries, or cavities.
How does fluoride prevent tooth decay and cavities?
Dental caries (commonly known as cavities) or tooth decay is caused by damage to or erosion of tooth enamel and can occur in both primary and permanent teeth due to poor oral hygiene, malformed teeth, or other health and lifestyle factors. Fluoride, when mixed with water and saliva, bonds with and is absorbed by the tooth enamel to restore and strengthen teeth.
What are the benefits of fluoride?
The benefits of fluoride include:
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stronger tooth enamel
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teeth become less vulnerable to decay (cavities) or other infections
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forms protection against and attacks harmful bacteria
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improves overall health - tooth decay in children can lead to additional health and developmental concerns and conditions, which is why fluoride treatments can have a positive impact on
ADVANCED DENTAL TECHNOLOGY DELIVERS ENHANCED IMAGING
Digital Radiographs
At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, digital radiography replaces traditional x-rays for enhanced imaging.
What is digital radiography?
Digital radiography allows our dental professionals to more easily and efficiently take accurate images of your child's teeth, jaw and mouth. Our advanced technology includes digital sensors and panoramic dental x-ray (or PANO machine) to capture a single, full-mouth image of the patient's mouth.
Is digital radiography safe?
Yes. Our commitment as healthcare providers is always to the safety and well-being of our patients. Digital radiographs will only be taken on an as needed basis and at the recommendation of your dentist. In addition, each of our office locations strictly follows the guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for prescribing radiographs.
HYGIENE COACHING GIVES KIDS THE SKILLS THEY NEED FOR SELF-CARE AND HEALTHY HABITS
Oral Hygiene Instructions
At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, our dentists and hygienists take the time to coach each child on proper hygiene and habits.
During your child's routine visit to any of our four Houston pediatric dental clinics, we take the time to listen to your concerns, answer questions, and give both parents and children guidance on how we can work together to keep your child's oral and dental health in tip-top shape.
Oral hygiene instructions include explaining and practicing proper brushing and flossing, advice on techniques to help with the at-home hygiene habits, as well as personalized recommendations appropriate to the child's age, dexterity and confidence level with self-care.
If you or your child have any questions about oral hygiene, talk to your pediatric dentist or registered dental hygienist at Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry. We are committed to compassionate, knowledgeable care for every patient at our Houston dental offices.
