Cleanings, Exams and X-rays for Kids - Portland
Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings are performed by our hygienist and dental assistant. Cleanings are important to your child's dental health; they allow us to monitor levels of plaque buildup, demonstrate brushing and flossing techniques while providing crucial information. Daily brushing and flossing habits begin early, we want to help your child start off on the right foot.
The cleaning portion of the appointment is done with specialized child appropriate tools and kid-friendly language. We will:
| • | Remove Plaque and Tartar: Plaque is a sticky substance that is naturally made in your mouth, it is a blend of saliva and food debris. The food debris in plaque often contains some level of sugar and bacteria. Plaque often settles on the surface of teeth and along the gumline. As the bacteria feed on the sugar in plaque, it then emits an acid that decays the enamel of the tooth creating holes in the enamel, often referred to as a cavity. Additionally, this bacteria can attack the gum tissue causing a bacterial infection known as gum disease. Tartar is plaque that has remained in place until it has dried and hardened. |
| • | Demonstrate Proper Brushing: We will discuss the correct type and amount of toothpaste with your child. We will also discuss the proper way to angle the toothbrush, toward the gums and to brush for two minutes twice a day. |
| • | Polish: Dental cleanings are concluded with a polish using a rotary brush and gritty toothpaste. This will remove extrinsic stains and give your child a brighter smile. |
Dental Examinations
Following your child’s dental cleaning, they will meet with Dr. Fariba Mutschler or Dr. Mark Mutschler for a dental exam. Exams are done in two parts, first the review of digital x-rays and then a visual exam with a simple probe. Both parts are painless.
Examination Through Digital X-ray
Digital x-rays are an incredible dental tool; they allow us to see things that are hidden. We can spot areas of decay between teeth, the growth of abscesses, and more. Additionally, x-rays allow us to review and watch the growth of your child’s permanent teeth when they are below the gumline. With today’s digital technology, the images are clear, large and gained with much less radiation than traditional x-rays.
Examination With a Probe
The dental tool known as a probe is simply a device we use to assist us in looking. We visually look at the coloring, texture, and growth of the soft and hard tissues in the mouth for anything out of the ordinary. This step is quick and painless.
We invite you to call us at (971) 470-0054 with any questions about your child's first visit!
