Preventive Dentistry

Preventive Dentistry: Cleanings and Exams

At Hingham Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that regular dental checkups are the foundation of a healthy smile. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit their dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. These visits allow us to catch any potential issues early, making treatments easier and more cost-effective.

What to Expect During Your Child’s Exam

During your child’s exam, our pediatric dentist will carefully check the health and development of their teeth and gums. If necessary, digital x-rays may be taken to help spot any hidden cavities or ensure that teeth are growing in properly. Our digital x-rays use less radiation than traditional methods, and they allow you and your child to get a clear view of what’s going on in their mouth.

The dentist will also gently examine your child’s gums to check for signs of gum disease or areas where it could develop. If we find any issues, we will explain them to you in simple, easy-to-understand language and discuss possible treatment options.

The Importance of Professional Cleanings

Even if your child is brushing and flossing regularly at home, it’s difficult to remove all food particles and bacteria, which can lead to plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film that can cause cavities and gum disease if not properly managed. Our professional cleanings are designed to remove this buildup, leaving your child’s teeth clean and healthy.

During the cleaning, we’ll also check to see if a fluoride treatment or dental sealants might be beneficial for your child. Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay, while sealants provide an added layer of protection, particularly on the back molars where cavities often form.

Sealants for Cavity Prevention

Sealants are a simple, painless way to help keep your child cavity-free. Applied after a thorough cleaning, sealants are typically used on the back molars, where four out of five cavities in children are found. A sealant is a clear or slightly tinted plastic material that is painted onto the chewing surface of the tooth, creating a protective barrier against food particles, plaque, and acid.

Sealants are quick to apply, usually during a single office visit, and they can protect your child’s teeth during their most cavity-prone years. The procedure is comfortable and safe—once the sealant is applied, it is hardened with a special light, and your child can eat or drink immediately afterward.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that plays an important role in reducing tooth decay. At Hingham Pediatric Dentistry, we want to make sure your child is getting the right amount of fluoride for their growing teeth. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay by remineralizing the surface of the teeth.

While fluoride is present in most public water supplies and toothpastes, it’s important to ensure that your child isn’t getting too much or too little fluoride. Too much fluoride can cause a condition called dental fluorosis, which can lead to white spots or staining on permanent teeth. We can help you monitor your child’s fluoride intake and, if necessary, provide fluoride treatments in our office to ensure their teeth stay healthy and strong.

Why X-rays Matter

X-rays are an important tool for maintaining your child’s dental health, even when they still have their primary teeth. X-rays allow us to see problems that aren’t visible during a regular exam, such as cavities between the teeth or issues with how the teeth are developing. We also use x-rays to monitor wisdom teeth and plan for orthodontic treatment, if needed.

Our digital x-rays use the least amount of radiation possible, and we recommend x-rays once a year for growing children to keep track of their dental development and prevent future issues.