Comprehensive Oral Exam

At ABC Kids Dental Group, we believe that oral health must be part of a child’s daily routine. It is important that at an early age children are taught about proper oral hygiene and the benefits that they can gain from it. Our dentists make sure that dental hygiene is fun and easy for children to learn to do on their own. Besides focusing on educating kids and their parents about the proper way to brush and floss, a comprehensive oral exam will reveal the specific dental needs of the patient and if any treatment is necessary.

What Happens During A Comprehensive Oral Exam?

Comprehensive oral exams consist of a combination of the following procedures to make sure that all aspects of the child’s oral health are addressed, and an effective treatment strategy is formulated from the results. The physical oral examination is used to determine the actual physical state of the mouth and oral structures. A visual checkup can help determine if any cavities are present. For more information, digital x-rays can be taken to determine the extent of the decay and to see if it has spread to the underlying structures. When the examination is complete, the parents will be informed of the findings and doctors will thoroughly explain all treatments that are needed. The child will also be taught how to take care of his or her own teeth so that they can maintain a beautiful smile.

What Types of Preventive Treatments are Offered During the Exam?

At ABC Kids Dental Group, we know that the best treatment is prevention. As a result, we offer a wide variety of preventative treatments to keep your child from needing any fillings in the future. These include a thorough dental cleaning, the use of dental sealants, fluoride treatment, space-maintainers for missing teeth, or preventive resin restoration (PRR) for minor decays.

Can the Need for Braces or Root Canals Be Determined During the Comprehensive Exam?

When our dentists take a look at your child’s x-rays and bite, they can determine if there is a need for endodontic (root canal) or orthodontic treatment. Endodontic treatment may be indicated if a tooth is a candidate for extraction but can be saved by root canal therapy. Orthodontic treatment, or braces, may be indicated for facilitating the alignment of teeth, improving the bite, closing the gaps between teeth, and correcting the proportions between the teeth and the child’s overall facial features.

What If My Child Needs Dental Treatment?

If your child has cavities that require treatment, our dentists will determine the most effective way to put your child at ease. In addition to local anesthesia to numb the tooth, some younger children do best when under sedation. For larger cases and younger children, putting the child to sleep completely may be the best option. Alternatively, oral sedation can be used to make the child calm but leave them awake during treatment. The best course of action for your child can be determined during the comprehensive oral exam.

Visit us today or call us at 833-i-ABC-Kid (833-522-2543)  to schedule your kid’s oral exam. We currently have office locations in Pacoima, Sun Valley and Granada Hills.