Regular Dental Visits
How often should my child visit the dentist?
The majority of children should visit their pediatric dentist twice a year for their dental checkup. Depending on their oral health, some children may require more frequent visits.
KSL TV Studio 5 interview: The benefits of early visits and prevention
(If you do not see a video above then you will need to download Adobe Flash Player in order to view them. Click on Adobe Flash Player to download the player.)
What happens at the checkup?
Dr. Stewart and staff will provide you with the following services:
- Review your child's dental and medical history
- Evaluate dental growth and development
- Examine your child's teeth, oral tissues and jaws
- Clean your child's teeth, removing plaque and tartar that cause decay
- Polish your child's teeth
- Apply fluoride
- Take x-rays, if needed and possible
- Perform an oral cancer screening
- Perform a preliminary orthodontic screening
- Provide instructions concerning at-home oral health care: including flossing, brushing and proper nutrition
Are twice-yearly checkups necessary?
Regular dental checkups help prevent cavities. Dr. Stewart will also assess changes in your child's oral health. For example, as your child develops, he or she may need sealants or fluoride treatment to achieve ideal oral health. Regular checkups at an early age are the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral health.
What can I do to promote good oral health at home?
The following steps will help your child avoid cavities:
1. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
2. Floss once a day
3. Start a nutritional habit of six small meals a day rather than "grazing"
4. Rinse with water after eating
5. Limit sugary snacks and drinks
6. Visit our office for regular dental checkups
7. Have sealants applied when appropriate and if necessary
If you have any questions about your child's oral health, Dr. Stewart or one of our team members will be glad to speak with you.