Routine Exams
Routine dental exams are important for every member of your family. We agree with the American Dental Association that children should start visiting the dentist for a cleaning and exam once every six months by the time they turn one year old.
You can wait a little longer to schedule your child’s first dental appointment if your baby’s teeth come in a bit slower than average, since we like to see our young patients within six months of their first teeth erupting. Children, teenagers, young adults, middle-aged adults, seniors, and those with special health needs all need regular preventive dental care.
What Happens During a Typical Dental Exam?
During the first part of your appointment, one of our dental hygienists removes plaque and tartar from your teeth with handheld or electronic instruments. Plaque is a sticky bacterium that can cause tooth decay, while tartar is the substance that plaque turns into and hardens on your teeth. Our hygienist also brushes, polishes, and flosses your teeth at every appointment and takes X-rays to help Dr. Hull monitor oral health conditions at every other appointment.
Along with viewing your X-rays, Dr. Hull inspects your teeth and gums for problems like gum disease, tooth decay, or the need for a root canal. If you need additional services, we will ask you to schedule a follow-up appointment before leaving our dental practice.
Children who are struggling to keep their teeth clean can receive fluoride treatments, dental sealants, or both. These treatments provide extra support by increasing the strength of your child’s tooth enamel and protecting the back molar teeth from decay by forming a barrier against bacteria.
Poor oral hygiene means more than having an unattractive smile. Some conditions, such as an untreated oral infection, can spread throughout the body. Dentists are also in a good position to detect oral cancer.
Please schedule routine exams in Gregory SD for any family member we have not seen in more than six months.
