Exams, Cleanings, and Cavity Protection for Kids

Healthy smiles start with prevention—especially for children. From the moment your child’s first tooth appears, consistent dental care helps protect their teeth, gums, and overall health. At GV Smiles, we focus on making preventive visits comfortable, educational, and effective so kids look forward to their dental checkups.

This guide covers the key preventive services we provide for children in Fairfield, CA, and how parents can help keep those smiles healthy at home.

Why Preventive Care Matters for Children in Fairfield

Baby teeth play an important role in your child’s development. They help with chewing, speaking clearly, and holding space for permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth also support proper jaw growth and alignment.

Preventive care means catching and treating small problems before they become big ones. It reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and orthodontic issues later on. At GV Smiles, we combine thorough exams, gentle cleanings, and parent education to set kids up for a lifetime of healthy habits.

What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Exam

A pediatric dental exam is more than just a quick look at your child’s teeth—it’s a complete check on their oral health, growth, and development.

Age-Appropriate Screenings and Growth Checks

During each visit, we evaluate:

• Tooth and gum health
• Early signs of cavities or enamel weakness
• Bite alignment and jaw growth
• Any airway concerns that could affect breathing or sleep

We also discuss your child’s diet and oral care habits to ensure they get the best protection at home.

Recommended Visit Frequency

Most children benefit from visits every six months. However, if your child has a higher risk for cavities, we may recommend more frequent checkups. Regular visits help us spot changes early and reinforce good hygiene habits.

Professional Cleanings for Kids: What They Include and Why They Matter

Even the best brushers can miss spots, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities and gum irritation.

Our hygienists use gentle techniques and age-appropriate tools to:

• Remove plaque and tartar without discomfort
• Polish teeth for a smooth, clean finish
• Reduce the risk of bad breath and staining

Cleanings also give kids a fresh start, making it easier for them to maintain good habits between visits.

Fluoride Treatments to Prevent Tooth Decay

Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from food and bacteria.

How Fluoride Works and When We Recommend It

At GV Smiles, fluoride varnish is applied in just seconds after a cleaning. It’s safe, painless, and effective for children of all ages. We typically recommend treatments every six months, but may adjust based on your child’s cavity risk, diet, and home care routine.

After application, kids can eat and drink normally—just avoid crunchy foods for a couple of hours so the varnish has time to set.

Dental Sealants: Protecting the Grooves of Molars

Molars have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria, making them more prone to cavities. Sealants fill in these pits and fissures, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to clean.

Fast, Painless, and Effective

Placing sealants is simple:

• The tooth is cleaned and dried.
• A gentle etching solution is applied.
• Sealant material is painted on and hardened with a curing light.

Sealants can last for years and are checked at every exam to ensure they’re still intact.

Brushing and Flossing for Kids: Simple Techniques That Work

Good home care is just as important as regular dental visits. We make it fun and easy for kids to learn proper techniques.

Brushing Basics by Age

• Use a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush
• Brush twice daily for two minutes
• Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste once your child can spit
• Angle the brush toward the gumline and use gentle, circular strokes

Fun timers, songs, or apps can help keep kids engaged for the full two minutes.

Flossing When Teeth Touch

Once teeth start to touch, flossing becomes essential. Floss picks can make it easier for small hands, and parents should assist until children can floss effectively on their own.

Preventive Care Beyond the Basics: Airway-Aware Growth and Minimally Invasive Options

At GV Smiles, prevention also includes watching for early orthodontic concerns and offering conservative treatments when possible.

Early Orthodontic Evaluations and Airway-Focused Guidance

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic check by age seven. This allows us to identify crowding, bite issues, or airway concerns early—when they may be easier to address. Our early airway orthodontics approach focuses on supporting healthy breathing and facial development.

Conservative Care When Needed

If we find early signs of decay, minimally invasive options like SDF treatment can slow or stop progression without drilling. This can be especially helpful for very young or anxious children.

Tips for Parents: Make Prevention Easier (and More Fun)

• Offer water between meals instead of sugary drinks
• Limit sticky snacks and sweets
• Supervise brushing until at least age 7–8
• Replace toothbrushes every three months or after illness
• Use rewards like stickers or small prizes for consistent home care

When parents make oral care part of the family routine, children are more likely to stick with it.