Just like cleanings and exams for adults, pediatric cleanings and exams are fairly straightforward. Your child’s dental hygienist or dentist will clean their teeth and gums, then their dentist will carefully examine their mouth and any x-rays to look for potential issues with your child’s oral health or development.
You’ll have the opportunity during this visit to speak with your child’s dentist about what to expect during the various stages of their oral development, like when their teeth will be erupting, falling out, then erupting again as adult teeth. We will discuss proper techniques for at-home oral care and hygiene for different age groups, and even talk about nutrition and diet, and how it’s related to your child’s developing oral health.
Digital x-rays are fast, high-resolution images that capture your child’s jaw and tooth health. X-rays will only be recommended if your child’s dentist thinks they are necessary. For most cases, x-rays are taken every few years, however, your child’s dentist may recommend more if your child is at high risk for oral disease.
Cavities and toothaches are never fun, especially when it's your child suffering. And when it comes to treating decay in baby teeth, you may be wondering if there are alternatives to dental fillings. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a non-invasive procedure that doesn't require any drills or shots, and can be completed in minutes. Painting on a layer of SDF to the affected tooth not only kills the bacteria that causes decay, but also seals and remineralizes the tooth for added strength. If your little one has a cavity, fillings may not be the only option!
Dental sealants use a transparent liquid resin, which is applied directly to the teeth and is hardened using a UV light. This creates an impenetrable seal on your child’s tooth, which stops bacteria, acid, and food particles from causing cavities. This treatment is usually recommended specifically for cavity-prone rear teeth.
Even children need oral cancer screenings! This is an essential part of preventive care that can be performed quickly, safely, and usually without your child noticing.
During the screening, the dentist will examine your child’s mouth, gums, and oral tissues. They’ll look for discolored patches, lumps, growths, and other similar abnormalities. In the rare case that an issue is found, a biopsy may be taken and sent to a specialist for further analysis, or the dentist will refer you to a specialist directly.
Scheduling a dental visit every 6 months allows your child’s dentist to address any issues before they become larger problems.
Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Rene is simple. Just call the Chula Vista Pediatric Dentistry office at (619) 482-1210. Our friendly staff will help you find a convenient time for your child's visit. Alternatively, you can visit our office in person to schedule an appointment. We're located in Chula Vista, CA, and we're always happy to welcome new patients and their families.
Remember, regular dental visits are an essential part of your child's overall health. With pediatric preventative dentistry, we can catch potential issues early, provide effective treatment, and equip your child with the knowledge they need to maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime.
Our approach goes beyond just dental care; we aim to be your child's first dental home. Dr. Rene and the team create a welcoming environment, ensuring every visit is enjoyable and stress-free. We understand that every child is unique, and we tailor our care to meet their specific needs.
At Chula Vista Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Rene offers a comprehensive range of pediatric preventative dentistry services. These include regular check-ups and cleanings, dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and education on proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Dr. Rene also offers specialized care for children with unique dental needs, such as those with dental anxiety, special health care needs, or complex dental issues. His goal is to provide a comfortable, friendly environment where children feel at ease and parents feel confident in the quality of care their child is receiving.
Dental health is intertwined with overall well-being. Regular visits allow us to catch potential issues early, provide effective treatment, and equip your child with the knowledge they need to maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime. It's an investment in their present and future health.
Pediatric preventative dentistry is a branch of dental care that focuses on maintaining the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence. It involves regular dental check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and education on proper oral hygiene habits.
The importance of pediatric preventative dentistry cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in preventing dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and other health problems. Furthermore, regular dental visits from a young age help children become comfortable with the dentist, reducing dental anxiety and encouraging a lifetime of good oral health habits.
