How Often Should Children Have Dental Checkups?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) advises parents to make biannual dental appointments for children, beginning approximately six months after the first tooth emerges.

These two important yearly visits allow the pediatric dentist to monitor new developments in the child’s mouth, evaluate changes in the condition of teeth and gums, and continue to advise parents on good oral care strategies.

The pediatric dentist may schedule additional visits for children who are particularly susceptible to tooth decay or who show early signs of orthodontic problems.

What is the purpose of dental checkups?

First, the pediatric dentist aims to provide a “good dental home” for the child.  If a dental emergency does arise, parents can take the child for treatment at a familiar, comfortable location.

Second, the pediatric dentist keeps meticulous records of the child’s ongoing dental health and jaw development.  In general, painful dental conditions do not arise overnight.  If the pediatric dentist understands the child’s dental health history, it becomes easier to anticipate future issues and intervene before they arise.

Third, the pediatric dentist is able to educate parents and children during the visit.  Sometimes the pediatric dentist wants to introduce one or several factors to enhance tooth health - for example, sealants, fluoride supplements, or xylitol.  Other times, the pediatric dentist asks parents to change the child’s dietary or oral behavior - for example, reducing sugar in the child’s diet, removing an intraoral piercing, or even transitioning the child from sippy cups to adult-sized drinking glasses.

Finally, dental X-rays are often the only way to identify tiny cavities in primary (baby) teeth.  Though the child may not be feeling any pain, left unchecked, these tiny cavities can rapidly turn into large cavities, tooth decay, and eventually, childhood periodontal disease.  Dental X-rays are only used when the pediatric dentist suspects cavities or orthodontic irregularities.

Are checkups necessary if my child has healthy teeth?

The condition of a child’s teeth can change fairly rapidly.  Even if the child’s teeth were evaluated as healthy just six months prior, changes in diet or oral habits (for example, thumb sucking) can quickly render them vulnerable to decay or misalignment.

In addition to visual examinations, the pediatric dentist provides thorough dental cleanings during each visit.  These cleanings eradicate the plaque and debris that can build up between teeth and in other hard to reach places.  Though a good homecare routine is especially important, these professional cleanings provide an additional tool to keep smiles healthy.

The pediatric dentist is also able to monitor the child’s fluoride levels during routine visits.  Oftentimes, a topical fluoride gel or varnish is applied to teeth after the cleaning.  Topical fluoride remineralizes the teeth and staunches mineral loss, protecting tooth enamel from oral acid attacks.  Some children are also given take-home fluoride supplements (especially those residing in areas where fluoride is not routinely added to the community water supply).

Finally, the pediatric dentist may apply dental sealants to the child’s back teeth (molars).  This impenetrable liquid plastic substance is brushed onto the molars to seal out harmful debris, bacteria, and acid.

If you have questions or concerns about when to schedule your child’s dental checkups please contact your pediatric dentist.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

It had been almost 10 years since I my last visit to the dentist. I am one of those with "dental phobia", but thanks to Dr. Pardo and her employees I have overcome my fear!

The office is always clean, bright, and welcoming. Nelcy, is usually who you first encounter and she always makes you feel welcomed. Dr. Pardo and her employees have always made me feel comfortable while in the dental chair. They also offer you Bluetooth headphones when getting a procedure done!

I highly recommend Dr. Pardo's office when looking for a new dentist in the Glendora area.

Brynne V.

My wife and I have been having this debate on dentists for a number of years. When she moved to my town, she started seeing my dentist. And she would always tell me 'your dentist sucks, I've had better!' I would argue that I've been going to my dentist for years - through college and now as an adult and I thought my dentist was just fine. But I really had no other dentist, so I didn't know any better. Reluctantly, my wife decided to just stay with my dentist, because they were nearby and we only saw them twice a year for cleanings anyway. But then we moved and had kids and my wife said since we are now using her insurance, she gets to pick the dentist. I begrudgingly agreed. Let me just say, she was right (pause for wife's 'I-told-you-so-look'). I am so glad we changed!

Looking back, my old dentist wasn't as personable and as gentle as Dr. Pardo and her hygienists. For a long time, I just thought all the discomfort I went through was just a part of regular dentistry. I was so wrong. I was never asked so many times how I was doing or if I was feeling any discomfort. My old dentist and her hygienist often leaned on my shoulder or face during cleanings. And when they flossed me, they would cause my gums to bleed. I never really gave it much thought until it stopped happening. Dr. Pardo and her hygienist were very conscious about patient comfort and care. And after years with my old dentist, it was very refreshing. Dr. Pardo is also very knowledgeable in her practice- often giving tips, suggestions and great advice when it came to our oral care. She is also great with our kids. She is very patient and understanding and puts them at ease at every appointment, but will still go after them when it comes to brushing and flossing. I highly recommend Pardo Dentistry if you're looking for a dentist. You will not be disappointed!

Alvin D.

This was my first visit with my new dentist. I was very impressed with the office and staff.

The office is well kept and clean. I felt very relaxed in there. The dental equipment looked to be modern and well cared for. The music over the overhead speakers was relaxing and contemporary.

The office staff and dental assistants are personable and professional. They were friendly and easy to talk with.

Doctor Pardo is youthful and energetic. She seems to enjoy her profession. She listens well and provides easy to understand descriptions of her observations and thoughts. She's also open and eager to answering questions.

Even more important, she seems to have a steady hand and cool demeanor. Can't wait to experience her skills with a hypodermic needle. WAIT!! I can wait.

Chris C.

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Contact Us. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.