Pediatric Exams in Washington, DC
Here at Pearson Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to the health of your children’s mouths. One way we ensure a healthy mouth is by performing regular checkups that track development and catch problems early.
Request an AppointmentChildren should be seen every six months unless they have a problem that needs closer monitoring. During these routine checkups, we’re able to see how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing and step in early if something looks off track.
It’s also recommended that during an examination, your child gets x-rays from time to time, which allow us to check for tumors, cysts, and bone loss below the surface. X-rays also let us look at the position of your child’s teeth and their roots, giving us information a visual exam alone can’t provide.
While performing an examination, we look at the gums to make sure they aren’t infected or diseased, and if they are, we’ll help your child get back on track. We also look for signs of tooth decay and cavities, and check any existing dental work such as prior fillings to make sure everything is holding up well. As part of every exam, we also check inside and outside the mouth for any signs of oral cancer.
After an examination, we typically perform a professional dental cleaning. During this time, we remove any tartar and plaque that has built up on your child’s teeth, then polish the teeth to remove stains and any remaining buildup. If your child is around age seven, this is also a good time to discuss an orthodontic evaluation.
If you have any questions about our examinations or professional cleanings, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (202) 889-5200.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Exams
How often does my child need a dental exam?
Most children should have an exam every six months. Kids with a specific dental concern or higher cavity risk may be scheduled more frequently.
What does a pediatric dental exam include?
An exam typically includes checking the teeth, gums, and jaw development, reviewing prior dental work, screening for signs of oral cancer, and recommending x-rays or a cleaning if needed.
At what age should my child start having regular exams?
We recommend starting regular exams around your child’s first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
Are x-rays part of every exam?
Not necessarily. We recommend x-rays periodically to check for issues below the surface, such as bone loss or the position of developing teeth, based on your child’s age and dental history.
Can an exam catch problems before they cause pain?
Yes, one of the main benefits of regular exams is catching cavities, gum issues, and developmental concerns early, often before your child feels any discomfort.
Does the exam include a cleaning?
Most visits combine an exam with a professional cleaning, so your child leaves with both an updated health check and freshly polished teeth.
How do I schedule my child’s next exam?
You can request an appointment through our appointments page or call us directly at (202) 889-5200.