Kids Comprehensive Oral ExamBurbank, CA

Understanding Comprehensive Oral Exams for Kids

Children should receive comprehensive oral exams to ensure that their teeth and gums are healthy. This exam will help keep the patients stay on track to properly maintain their oral health. They are important because the earlier a child sees a dentist, the higher the chances are of detecting and avoiding tooth decay.

Parents can also use these exams to ask any questions or express any concerns regarding their child’s oral health. Our team works with parents to determine the best course of action for any dental issues. Oral exams also help children build a positive relationship with the dentist and educate them about healthy dental habits.

Preparing for A Comprehensive Oral Exam

Some children may be nervous or anxious about receiving a comprehensive oral exam. Parents can help ease the child into the appointment process by preparing them ahead of time. Positively explaining why it is necessary to visit the dentist and providing them with a general idea of what to expect can help build excitement and understanding. Dental exams should also be during a time of day when the patient is well-rested and more likely to cooperate.

Parents can also provide moral support by remaining calm in the dental waiting room. It is important to listen to each child and encourage them to share their worries about having an oral exam. Any parents with dental anxieties should be careful not to relate their fears, as children can pick up on their anxieties and become anxious themselves. Parents can also predict how their child will respond and let us know about any concerns.

What Happens During a Comprehensive Oral Exam

During a comprehensive oral exam, a thorough examination determines the state of the patient’s mouth. The inspection of the gums and teeth involves checking for signs of gum disease or tooth decay. Our pediatric dentist will look at the patient’s teeth and take X-rays if necessary to get more information and generate an accurate diagnosis. After the teeth examination, we will review the results.

If treatment is necessary, we will inform the parents about the best course of action for treatment. Various preventative procedures are available, depending on the patient and their specific needs. These procedures include dental cleaning, dental sealants, and fluoride treatments.

After the Comprehensive Oral Exam

After the comprehensive oral exam, parents and children will receive a brief summary of how to maintain oral health. Parents will also discuss their child’s oral health with the pediatric dentist, including their risk of tooth decay and other oral health concerns. Then we will recommend preventative measures to improve and protect the patient’s oral health.

Our team will also recommend when to schedule the next follow-up appointment. Generally, an oral exam should occur every six months.. However, patients with higher risks of tooth decay or other oral health concerns may need more frequent exams.

Call Us Today

Comprehensive oral exams are essential for getting a complete picture of your child’s oral health and fighting against tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental concerns. Our team at Star Kids Dental & Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 818-483-9064 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my child does not get a comprehensive oral exam?

Comprehensive oral exams are essential for maintaining oral health and general well-being. Not receiving these exams can allow dental issues to go unchecked and result in tooth decay, cavities, and more serious problems later on. Studies have found that about 20% of children between the ages of five and 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth.

What are signs of gum disease in children?

Gum disease can range from mild to severe. Most children have the mildest form of gum disease, called gingivitis. Gum disease is not generally painful, so many patients may not know whether they have it. Some common signs include red and swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, receding gums, and bad breath that will not go away.

What children are at risk for tooth decay?

All children are at risk for tooth decay as they all have bacteria in their mouths. However, certain lifestyle choices and conditions can increase the risk. These include a diet high in sugar and starches, poor oral hygiene, less than normal saliva flow, and a water supply with little to no fluoride in it.

Why are X-rays taken?

X-rays allow us to see a more detailed view of specific sections of a mouth when diagnosing problems that are not visible. Our team uses digital X-rays, which allow us to see higher quality images and uses 99% less radiation than standard X-ray machines. These X-rays allow us to take the best course of action for each patient’s needs.

What happens during dental cleaning?

Dental cleanings are an important preventative measure against tooth decay. No matter how well a child brushes their teeth, it is impossible to remove all the bacteria that can cause cavities. Dental cleaning during an oral exam helps remove these cavity-causing bacteria and keeps gums healthy.