Pediatric Dental Exams and Cleanings

in Maitland, FL

At Maitland Pediatric Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of caring for your child’s smile right from the start. We are committed to providing quality preventive services, including pediatric dental exams and cleanings, to get your child on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles!

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A joyful young girl with curly hair bursts into laughter, radiating happiness and positivity.

When Should You Schedule Your Child's First Visit?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) guidelines, your child's first dental visit should occur by the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early dental visits are critical to the prevention and early detection of dental problems and help establish positive associations with future dental care.

After the first dental visit, most kids require twice-yearly dental appointments. Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor the growth and development of your child's mouth and address any concerns promptly. Professional teeth cleanings, on the other hand, help remove plaque and tartar buildup, lowering the risk of cavities and gum disease.

A person's hand brushing the teeth of a child.

The Importance of Caring for Baby Teeth

Maintaining healthy baby teeth is critical to your child's overall development. These tiny pearly whites act as placeholders for the permanent teeth developing behind the scenes, guiding them into their correct positions. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay or damage, the nearby teeth may shift toward the gap, leading to crooked teeth and problems with the bite. That usually translates into the need for orthodontic treatment later in life.

Baby teeth help your child eat without pain, ensuring proper nutrition. They also play a role in learning to pronounce new sounds and contribute to your little one's facial development. Caring for your child's baby teeth sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

What Should I Expect During My Child's First Visit?

The first dental visit is an exclusive experience fully tailored to your child's unique needs. It may include a gentle toothbrush cleaning or an exam while sitting comfortably in your lap. We believe in a “Tell-Show-Do” approach, which involves using kid-friendly terms to explain what we're doing, showing our kid-sized dental tools, and proceeding with caring for your child’s smile. We always go at your child's pace and make every effort to ensure the first dental visit is a happy, comfortable, and educational experience.

What Happens During Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings?

A routine dental visit will include a thorough evaluation of your child's oral health. We may start by taking digital x-rays, which help uncover early signs of decay between the teeth and any problems inside the teeth or under the gums. Even though our digital x-rays are considered safe for kids, our team at Maitland Pediatric Dentistry has adopted the "ALARA" or "As Low as Reasonably Achievable" principle to minimize radiation exposure while obtaining essential diagnostic information. Your child's safety and well-being are always our top priorities.

Our experienced pediatric dentist will examine your child's teeth, jaws, and gums to rule out tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems. He will also ensure your little one's oral development is on track.

Next, we will gently remove plaque and tartar buildup and polish your little one's teeth, removing surface stains. After the teeth cleaning, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your child's tooth enamel and make it more resistant to tooth decay. We will also discuss home oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing habits, and offer tips to keep your little one's teeth healthy and bright.

What Happens Next?

Dr. Aloise will discuss your child's dental health. He may recommend restorative treatments to address cavities or any tooth damage. He may also outline preventive treatments to protect your child's oral health. He will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to maintain your child's healthy smile.

How We Help Your Child Relax During Treatment

We strive to ensure every visit is a calm, relaxed, and happy experience.
Here's what sets Maitland Pediatric Dentistry apart:

We're a Friendly,
Kid-Centered Team

Dr. Aloise and our team members love kids and work hard to make your child's time memorable and free of stress.

We Speak Your
Child's Language

We use kid-friendly language, turning toothbrushes into "Mr. Bumpy" and the dental drill into a sensational "water gun."

We Offer Happy Air for Calm Treatments

We offer nitrous oxide, or "happy air," if needed, to help your child feel calm and relaxed while getting outstanding dental care.

Your Child can Watch TV During Treatment

Your child will enjoy watching a favorite TV show while getting the best possible dental care!

We Have Treasure
Box Rewards

Your child will love our treasure box rewards - every visit ends on a delightful note!