Pediatric Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning

Your child deserves dental care that’s as unique as their smile. At Akoya Pediatric Dentistry, our pediatric dentists prioritize unrushed, one-on-one appointments where we can truly connect with every patient. 

Located in Southwest Ranches, FL, our calming, kid-friendly atmosphere ensures that each visit is a positive experience. 

Regular pediatric dental exams and teeth cleanings are essential for maintaining your child’s oral health and catching potential issues early.

The Importance of Regular Dental Exams and Teeth Cleaning

Regular visits to the dentist from a young age are the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Pediatric dental exams and dental cleanings help:

1. Protect your child’s teeth and gums by addressing potential issues in the earliest stages before they develop into bigger problems.
2. Establish strong oral hygiene habits that set the stage for lifelong dental health.
3. Monitor the growth of baby teeth and permanent teeth, ensuring proper alignment and development.
4. Empower families with education about oral health and the benefits of a balanced diet for healthy teeth.

Skipping dental checkups can allow small issues to grow into bigger problems, like tartar buildup, gum disease, or tooth decay. Preventative care keeps your child on the path to a healthy, beautiful smile.

What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Exam?

Our approach to dental care focuses on making each visit comfortable and enjoyable. During a pediatric dental exam, our team will:

• Welcome Your Child With a Smile
  • We create a calming environment by asking your child what show they would like to watch.
  • We observe your child’s comfort level which helps us tailor the experience to their needs.
    
  • If your child seems ready to go, they can hop into the chair, and we will begin our exam, cleaning, and X-ray routine.
  • For more apprehensive children, we start with an introduction to the dental practice to help them feel at ease. A stuffed animal or blanket is always available to help them feel secure during the visit.
    
• Encourage Parental Involvement
  • Your input matters. We work with you to address concerns and ensure their experience is positive.
  • We collaborate with parents, asking for their input and advice to help facilitate cooperative behavior and ensure a positive experience.
    
• Perform a Thorough Oral Examination
  • We will check for tooth decay, gum disease, and other concerns.
  • We monitor the alignment of your child’s teeth and jaw to catch potential issues early.
  • If needed, we take digital X-rays to see areas that are not visible during the visual exam.

Tailored Care for Anxious or Special Needs Children

Every child is unique, and we adapt our approach to suit their comfort level. For children who are apprehensive or have special needs, we:

• Offer shorter, introductory visits to help them acclimate to the dental environment.
• Use desensitization techniques, such as introducing tools gradually and using them for brief periods.
• Work closely with parents to incorporate their advice and create a supportive, stress-free experience.

Our goal is to ensure every child leaves with a smile and a positive association with dental visits.

A Step-by-Step Look at Pediatric Teeth Cleaning

Here’s what your child can expect during their dental cleaning:

1. Gentle introduction:
   • We use a gradual approach to introduce tools and procedures.
   • Using the Tell-Show-Do method, we explain each step and let your child see the instruments before starting.
2. Plaque and tartar removal:
   • A dental hygienist carefully removes plaque and tartar from the teeth.
3. Polishing with kid-friendly toothpaste:
   • Using flavored or unflavored, gritty toothpaste, we polish the teeth to remove stains and food particles. All our toothpastes are gluten-free
4. Flossing:
   • We clean between the teeth to ensure every area is free of debris.
5. Fluoride or hydroxyapatite treatment:
   • A quick application of fluoride varnish strengthens tooth enamel and protects against cavities.
   • For children with specific needs, we may recommend toothpaste with hydroxyapatite to help remineralize teeth and protect against sensitivity.
6. Final check:
   • The dentists ensure their teeth are clean and healthy, addressing any concerns before finishing the appointment.

The Role of a Healthy Diet in Dental Health

We believe that great oral health starts with more than just brushing and flossing—it’s also shaped by the foods your child eats every day. 

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining strong, healthy teeth and gums, while poor dietary habits can contribute to cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. 

By making mindful food choices, you can help set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Foods to Include

• Calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt to strengthen tooth enamel.
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and celery, which naturally clean the teeth and promote saliva production.
• Lean proteins like chicken, eggs, and fish that support tissue repair and overall oral health.
• Whole grains for sustained energy and reduced sugar intake.

Foods to Limit or Avoid

• Sugary snacks and drinks like candy, soda, and fruit juices, which can lead to tooth decay.
• Sticky foods such as gummy candies and dried fruits that cling to teeth and are hard to clean off.
• Acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits and sports drinks that can erode tooth enamel over time.

Tips for Parents

• Encourage water as the primary beverage to rinse the mouth and keep teeth clean.
• Offer healthy snacks and limit frequent snacking to reduce exposure to sugars and acids.
• Avoid letting your child fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water.

By pairing a healthy diet with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, your child’s smile can stay strong and vibrant for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions