Children’s oral health depends on regular dental checkups and intervening early when problems arise. Pariana Tung, DDS, MSc, PhD, at Signature Smiles Dentistry in Fairfax County and Falls Church, Virginia, provides pediatric dentistry, welcoming your child to first visit the office about six months after their first tooth emerges. Call today or use the online tool to book your child’s visit.
Pediatric dentistry focuses on providing oral care and treating infants, children, and adolescents. Dr. Tung has experience addressing young patients’ unique dental needs and developmental stages.
Pediatric dentistry’s primary goal is to promote oral health from an early age and establish a positive attitude toward dental care. Pediatric dentistry includes:
Signature Smiles Dentistry creates a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure that children have a positive, stress-free dental experience.
The cornerstone of pediatric dentistry is regular checkups. These visits are vital for maintaining children’s oral health and preventing dental problems. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recommends biannual dental appointments for children about six months after their first tooth emerges.
The primary purpose of dental checkups for children is to establish a “good dental home” where parents can seek treatment for dental emergencies at a familiar and comfortable place.
These visits also allow Signature Smiles Dentistry to maintain detailed records of your child's ongoing dental health and jaw development. By understanding your child’s dental health history, Dr. Tung can anticipate potential problems and intervene before they become serious problems.
During routine dental checkups, Dr. Tung educates parents and children on good oral care, including using sealants and fluoride supplements. Sealants can prevent harmful debris, bacteria, and acids from causing cavities.
Dr. Tung can advise on dietary or behavioral changes, like reducing sugar intake and transitioning from sippy cups to adult-sized drinking glasses.
Dr. Tung also uses dental X-rays to identify tiny cavities or orthodontic irregularities that might not be visible during a visual exam.
Regular checkups are still necessary even if a child’s teeth appear healthy. Children's dental conditions change rapidly due to things like diet or oral habits like thumb sucking.
Routine dental cleanings during checkups remove plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas, supplementing your child's homecare routine.
Contact Signature Smiles Dentistry to schedule your child’s pediatric dentistry appointments. Call today or use the website to book their visit online.