April 16, 2025
Regular dental checkups are essential for oral health. Patients of all ages should have their teeth cleaned and examined regularly, especially children. A lifetime of oral health begins in early childhood, where the foundation is built on the right combination of personal and professional dental care.
Is your child getting regular dental checkups? Learn more about the importance of routine dental visits for children and how they impact oral health and wellness.
What Does a Dental Checkup Entail?
A dental checkup, more formally referred to as a comprehensive oral examination, involves the following:- Visual evaluation of the teeth and mouth. The dentist will thoroughly examine the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth to identify any potential concerns such as cavities, signs of gum disease, and abnormalities that may need further evaluation.
- Oral cancer screening. Although it is extremely rare in children, the dentist will also look for signs of oral cancer, such as abnormal growths or sores that haven’t healed.
- Dental X-rays. A regular dental checkup may include X-rays to detect oral health concerns that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
- Cleaning of the teeth. A routine visit to the dentist will also include a thorough teeth cleaning to remove plaque and calculus that is left behind after brushing and flossing.
Benefits of Regular Dental Checkups
- Prevention and early detection of cavities. Regular dental cleanings and exams can help prevent cavities from developing in teeth. In the case that a cavity does develop, it can be detected early and treated easily.
- Prevention and early detection of gum disease. Dental checkups can help to prevent gum disease and identify early stage gum disease (gingivitis) when it can still be cured. Once gum disease progresses to the advanced stages it is more difficult to treat and manage.
- Improved overall health and wellness. Oral health is an indicator of general health. A healthy mouth leads to a healthy body and mind.
- Save time and money. Regular dental checkups fall under the category of preventive dentistry, which is typically covered by dental insurance, often at 100%. Also, by preventing tooth decay and gum disease you avoid more advanced and costly treatments.
- Preserve the natural teeth. Children who go to the dentist for regular checkups are more likely to keep their natural teeth healthy and in place for their lifetime. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they pave the way for the permanent teeth and aid in proper eating and speech development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Checkups
At What Age Do Children Need Dental Checkups?
Children should begin going to the dentist around their first birthday, or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth. Early dental care keeps your child’s teeth and mouth healthy from the start, preventing problems that could escalate as your child grows.How Often Should Children Go to the Dentist?
Dentists recommend that children have regular dental checkups and cleanings every 6 months or twice a year. Most dental insurance plans cover 2 preventive dental appointments per year and dental X-rays once a year.Schedule a Dental Checkup Today
If it has been more than 6 months since your child’s last dental checkup, or if they are at least a year old and have never been to the dentist, plan your visit to Bright Smiles Miami today. Call or contact us to learn more and make an appointment.