Pediatric Dental Exams & Cleanings
Tampa, Florida
At Reef Kids Dental, we believe that establishing good oral hygiene habits right from the start is key to maintaining a healthy smile for life. That’s why we recommend regular dental exams and cleanings as soon as the first tooth emerges. Our warm, kid-friendly team is dedicated to making each visit a fun-filled, educational adventure!
How Often Should Your Child Visit the Dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) guidelines, kids should see a dentist after the first baby tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. After the first visit, most children need twice-yearly preventive dental exams and cleanings to maintain healthy smiles. However, kids prone to developing tooth decay or other dental problems may require more frequent dental visits.
What Are the Benefits of Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings?
Maintaining routine dental exams and cleanings is instrumental to keeping young smiles healthy and sound. They allow for ongoing monitoring, early detection, and prompt treatment of dental concerns, including cavities, gum disease, or problems with the bite. Treating dental problems in their earliest stages prevents the need for extensive treatments down the road.
Routine dental visits allow us to provide preventative services, including cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, reviewing proper oral hygiene care, and anticipatory guidance on common teeth milestones. They are also an excellent opportunity to answer your question and address any concerns. Topics we often cover include caring for your child’s teeth and gums, healthy nutrition for strong teeth and healthy smiles, and oral habits such as pacifier use or thumb sucking. We’re always here for you to guide you and ensure your little one’s smile stays healthy and bright.
What Happens During Your Child’s Dental Exam?
Depending on your child’s unique needs, we may start by taking digital dental x-rays to uncover dental concerns we can’t see, including early decay between teeth or problems inside the teeth and under the gums. We will check the teeth, gums, dental work, and oral structures to ensure everything is in tip-top shape. Based on the exam, we will recommend any preventive or restorative treatments needed to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
Our dental team will gently clean your child’s teeth and remove any plaque, calculus, and tartar deposits. This will assist in lowering the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Last is a fluoride treatment to prevent tooth decay and remineralize the enamel. We will also discuss your little one’s brushing and flossing routine and offer tips as needed.
Dental Exams and Cleanings Near Me in Tampa, FL
Reef Kids Dental is a magical, happy place designed with children in mind. We invite you to schedule your child’s dental exam and cleaning today! Our experienced pediatric dentist and kid-friendly team are committed to getting our young patients on track to a lifetime of straight, healthy, and sparkly smiles.
Are you ready to get started? Call our office at (813) 845-8722 to schedule your appointment or request one online today. We look forward to caring for your child's smile!