Regular dental exams are an essential component of preventative dentistry services designed to ensure long-term optimal oral health. At Helotes Children’s Dentistry, we are committed to delivering outstanding dental services to children of all ages. We invite you to experience pediatric dental care at its best!

Baby teeth play a significant role in speech development and also help with chewing, which ensures proper nutrition. They also maintain the space needed for the permanent teeth developing in the gums. If baby teeth go missing prematurely, your child’s long-term oral health may be compromised. Routine dental exams help us detect problems early when they’re most treatable, allowing your child to maintain a healthy smile.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit after the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday. From that point on, toddlers, school-age children, and adolescents will typically need dental exams every six months. However, we may recommend more frequent visits depending on your child’s age, health, and risk for oral health problems.

During the first dental visit, we will explain how to brush and floss your child’s teeth correctly. Even babies need flossing once two teeth are touching. We will also examine the teeth and gums to rule out any problems.

As kids grow, comprehensive dental exams involve evaluating the teeth, soft tissue, and jaw for any signs of abnormalities. In some cases, digital x-rays are used to diagnose conditions or to prepare for orthodontic treatment.

After the dental examination, we will perform a professional dental cleaning and fluoride treatment to keep your child’s smile clean and healthy. We will discuss your child’s dental health, including any concerns or needed dental procedures. We will guide and encourage your child to continue improving their techniques for brushing and flossing if they are not one hundred percent efficient. We may recommend applying dental sealants to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Most importantly, we will educate your child about the importance of proper oral hygiene practices for a healthy smile.