Cleanings, Exams, and X-rays
 As a parent, you probably have many questions about your child's dental health. We don't blame you. There is so much to keep track of as parents, it can be difficult to keep track of everything. Luckily for you, Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry has answers to your questions about your child's initial exam and digital x-rays.
The American Dental Association recommends that you take your child in to see the dentist after their first tooth erupts. In general, this is around twelve months of age. However, each baby is different. Some children do not cut their first tooth until they are nearly a year old. Dentists recommend that you bring your child in to see the dentist by their first birthday, whether they have the first tooth or not.
What Happens During A Dental Exam?
During your baby's first dental exam, several things will take place. We will want to get to know your child because it is important that we have a relationship with them. Children will love coming to the dentist once they get to know us. If they see us every six months, it helps them get familiar with our office and what we do.
 There are other things that take place during an initial dental exam. We will check your baby's teeth, and make sure that the teeth and gums are being formed correctly. We will also check the child's mouth for possible future problems down the road. The sooner that we can begin to treat a problem, the better it will be for the child in the long run.
We also will clean your child's teeth. In some cases, we will take x-rays. However, because children are sensitive to x-rays and radiation, we take as few x-rays as possible. We know that as a parent, you are concerned with the levels of x-rays and radiation in your child. That's why we use digital x-rays.
Digital x-rays are still x-raying, but they use less radiation than regular x-rays. Digital x-rays use less than 10% of the radiation of regular x-rays. We are all about making x-rays safer for both children and adults. Also, digital x-rays take less time to process. We can have a computer image of your child's teeth in a matter of seconds. We are also able to transfer digital x-rays between offices, so all of our dentists can communicate, which results in fewer x-rays being taken overall.
If you have questions about your child's first dental visit, or about digital x-rays, why not give us a call? Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry would love to talk to you about an initial exam and digital x-rays. Give us a call at (971) 459-2431 and let us schedule your child's first dental exam.
FAQs
Why are dental cleanings and exams important for children?
Dental cleanings and exams help protect children’s teeth and gums by removing plaque buildup, checking for cavities, and monitoring oral development. At Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry, our dental team uses routine visits to help prevent problems and support healthy habits as your child grows.
How often should my child have a dental cleaning and exam?
Many children benefit from dental cleanings and exams every six months, though some may need a different schedule based on cavity risk, oral hygiene, or dental development. Our dentists will recommend a visit schedule that supports your child’s specific oral health needs.
What happens during a child’s dental cleaning and exam?
During a child’s dental cleaning and exam, our dental team gently cleans the teeth, checks the gums, looks for cavities, and evaluates tooth and jaw development. We may also review brushing and flossing habits, discuss nutrition, and answer parent questions about home care.
Are dental x-rays safe for children?
Dental x-rays are used only when needed to help our dentists see areas that cannot be fully evaluated during a visual exam. Modern dental imaging is designed to use a low level of radiation, and our dental team takes appropriate precautions to support your child’s safety.
How can I help my child between dental cleanings?
You can help your child between dental cleanings by encouraging brushing with fluoride toothpaste, helping with flossing, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, and keeping routine visits at Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry. Our dental team can provide age-appropriate tips to make home care easier and more effective. |
