Pediatric Dentistry Specialist

What is pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is an oral health specialty that diagnoses and treats oral health problems in children and teenagers. Regular checkups and teeth cleanings are one of the easiest ways to encourage optimal oral health. They also present an opportunity to ask questions, discuss unusual symptoms, and build a relationship with your child’s dentist.

What services are included in pediatric dentistry?

The team at ViVE Dental offers various pediatric dentistry services, including:

Oral exams

An oral exam is a preventive screening that assesses your child’s dental health. During an exam, your child’s dentist uses a mirror to examine their gums, teeth, and tongue. If they detect cavities, gum disease, or other potential problems, the team can order additional tests or develop a custom treatment plan.

Teeth cleaning

Teeth cleaning removes plaque from your child's teeth and beneath their gum line. It’s performed by a dental hygienist or dental assistant. Once your child’s teeth are clean, the hygienist polishes their teeth with gritty toothpaste, flosses their teeth, and applies a fluoride treatment if prescribed.

Oral X-rays

Oral X-rays provide detailed photographs of your child’s tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar bone. An X-ray helps detect potentially serious problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye, including bone loss, impacted teeth, and tooth decay.

Dental sealants

Dental sealants are protective plastic coatings that the team applies to the top of your child’s molars or premolars. Dental sealants prevent harmful bacteria from entering a tooth, significantly lowering your child’s risk of cavities.

Fluoride treatment

Fluoride is a mineral that makes your teeth and bones strong. If your child has a history of cavities or weak tooth enamel, the team might recommend fluoride treatment to provide an extra line of defense.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics uses oral appliances, like braces or clear aligners, to gradually straighten your child’s teeth. The team at ViVE Dental uses orthodontics to treat various problems, including crowding, crooked teeth, and misaligned jaws.

Nutrition tips

The foods and beverages that your child consumes directly affect their oral health. The team can make nutritious snack recommendations that lower the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious oral health problems.

How frequently should I schedule a pediatric dentistry appointment?

If you want your child’s teeth and gums to stay healthy for years, try to visit ViVE Dental every six months for an oral exam and professional cleaning. Routine checkups can alert you to tooth decay, gum disease, or impacted teeth before they present obvious symptoms.

Don’t wait to request a pediatric dentistry consultation for your child at ViVE Dental. Book an appointment with the online scheduling tool or call the office today.