Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are a foundational part of pediatric dental care. They help identify early signs of tooth decay, track oral development, and provide guidance on hygiene and nutrition.
These preventive visits support healthy baby teeth, create positive dental experiences, and make it easier to maintain lifelong oral health.
We offer pediatric dental exams and teeth cleaning at our pediatric dental office in St. Petersburg, FL.
Key Takeaway
Early and consistent pediatric dental exams and teeth cleanings help prevent dental problems, support healthy development, and establish strong oral hygiene habits that last a lifetime.
Why Regular Pediatric Dental Exams Matter
Early and frequent visits to the dentist are the foundation of a lifetime of healthy smiles.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday. Newly erupted teeth, which typically appear between six and twelve months of age, need proper dental care and oral hygiene habits from the very beginning.
Did You Know?
Baby teeth play a bigger role than just filling out your child’s smile. They help with speech development, chewing, and saving space for permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth set the stage for a lifetime of proper alignment and oral function.
When New Teeth Arrive
As your child’s teeth begin to erupt, you may notice sore or tender gums. You can soothe this discomfort with a clean finger, a cool, damp cloth, or a teething ring.
Baby teeth typically continue to erupt until about age three and are gradually replaced by permanent teeth starting around age six and continuing through young adulthood.
Routine exams and dental cleanings support:
- Education on brushing, flossing, and healthy childhood habits
- Guidance on nutrition and how it affects tooth enamel and gum health
- Early detection of dental cavities and signs of tooth decay
- Monitoring of primary teeth and emerging permanent teeth
- Screening for cavities, extra teeth, and crooked teeth
We are firm believers in preventative care and frequent visits. It is the easiest, most non-invasive treatment approach to support your child’s lifelong oral health.
What to Expect During a Dental Exam
Every pediatric dental exam is tailored to your child’s age, comfort level, and developmental needs. Our calm, individualized approach helps create a positive experience that builds trust with each visit.
Each regular exam includes:
- A review of your child’s medical and dental history.
- A gentle yet thorough exam of the teeth, gums, and bite.
- An inspection for signs of gingivitis, periodontal disease, or dental emergencies.
- Digital dental x-rays are used when needed to detect problems below the surface.
Your child’s exam takes about 45 minutes. We offer the opportunity to ask questions, discuss treatment options, and explore any concerns about dental health or oral hygiene.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Kids’ Teeth Cleaning
A professional cleaning is an essential part of pediatric dentistry that helps keep teeth strong and cavity-free.
Here is how we make dental cleanings easy, effective, and educational:
- Gentle introduction: We take time to explain what we are doing in simple, reassuring language. If your child is curious, we let them see and touch the instruments before we begin.
- Plaque and tartar removal: We gently remove buildup that brushing at home may miss, especially food particles stuck in hard-to-reach areas.
- Polishing with flavored toothpaste: Our kid-friendly pastes leave teeth smooth and squeaky clean.
- Flossing: We clean between teeth and teach your child how to maintain these habits at home.
- Fluoride treatment: A quick, safe application to strengthen enamel and protect against cavity formation.
- Final dental check: A last look by our pediatric dentist to confirm your child’s oral health is in top shape.
Supportive Care for Anxious or Special Needs Children
Every child deserves dental care that meets them where they are. That is why we offer flexible, individualized care for children with anxiety, sensory needs, or developmental conditions.
Our approach includes:
- Introductory visits to get familiar with the dental office
- Gradual desensitization techniques for ease during treatment
- Parental collaboration to help us understand what comforts your child and how we can personalize their experience
- Sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide and IV sedation
We are here to make every dental visit feel safe, easy, and full of encouragement. Learn more about Special Needs Dentistry.
Teach Good Habits That Last
At Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our role goes beyond cleanings and checkups. We educate both kids and parents on dental care methods that support long-term oral hygiene.
We provide:
- Tips for brushing and flossing at home
- Nutrition guidance to support tooth enamel and reduce sugar-related damage
- Advice on how to recognize signs of tooth decay or sensitive teeth
- Early coaching to prevent habits like thumb-sucking that may impact alignment
With continual education, caring support, and advanced treatments when needed, we bring every smile to life.
Signs Your Child May Need a Checkup
Even with regular exams, some symptoms might mean your child should see the dentist sooner:
Tooth sensitivity or pain
White or brown spots on teeth
Red or bleeding gums
Bad breath that lingers
Chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth
What to Eat for Strong Teeth and Gums
Healthy habits start at home, and that includes what’s on your child’s plate.
The foods your child eats every day can either protect their teeth or increase the risk of cavities and enamel erosion. Choosing tooth-friendly snacks and limiting sugary or acidic treats can help keep their smile bright and healthy.
Smart Snacks to Support a Healthy Smile
- Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese help strengthen tooth enamel with calcium and vitamin D
- Crisp fruits and veggies such as apples, cucumbers, and carrots gently scrub the teeth and boost saliva
- Protein-rich foods like chicken, turkey, eggs, and beans promote tissue repair and oral health
- Whole grains provide fiber and sustained energy without added sugars
Foods That Can Harm Growing Teeth
- Sticky treats like gummies and fruit snacks cling to teeth and feed bacteria
- Sugary beverages such as juice, soda, and sports drinks increase cavity risk
- Highly acidic foods like citrus fruits and flavored waters can wear down tooth enamel over time
Helpful Tips for Parents
- Offer water between meals to rinse away food particles and reduce sugar exposure
- Limit snacking throughout the day to give teeth time to recover between meals
- Avoid letting children fall asleep with a bottle or sippy cup unless it contains only water
When combined with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, a balanced diet can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Fun for Kids
Dental sealants are a quick and painless preventive treatment that helps protect your child’s molars from decay and harmful bacteria, supporting a healthier, cavity-free smile.
Your Local Home for Children’s Smiles
You can find us in our bright yellow building with blue shutters, right off MLK Jr. Street near Gandy Boulevard. Our cheerful office, painted bright yellow with blue shutters, is a welcoming home for pediatric dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL.
We accept most PPO dental insurance plans and are in-network with many providers, helping families in St. Petersburg, FL receive high-quality pediatric care with predictable costs.
Schedule an Appointment in St. Petersburg, FL
Whether it is your child’s first visit or their tenth, our caring dental team is here to provide exceptional dental care in a warm, welcoming space. We offer a wide range of dental care services that support your child’s total well-being.
To book an appointment, at our pediatric dental office in St. Petersburg, FL, call (727) 914-6611 or visit us at 8525 Dr MLK Jr St N St Petersburg, FL.
💬 Want to hear from other parents? Read our patient testimonials and see why families love visiting Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a cleaning included in a dental exam?
Yes. During a comprehensive exam, your child will receive a dental cleaning as part of their visit. However, if your child is coming in for a focused exam due to a specific issue, the visit may not include a full cleaning.
At what age should a child have their first dental checkup?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
What age do dentists start cleaning kids’ teeth?
We begin professional cleanings as soon as your child is ready, often by age one or two, when they have a few baby teeth and can sit comfortably in the chair.
