Dental Exams

A dental exam is the cornerstone of preventive health. At Nurture Kids Dentistry, we view the dental exam not just as a medical necessity, but as an opportunity to build trust. We want your child to feel proud of their smile and comfortable in the dental chair.

Whether it is your baby’s very first visit or a teenager’s routine check-up, Dr. Ketan Jumani and his team treat every exam with patience, gentleness, and a focus on education.

What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Exam?

We know that new sights and sounds can be intimidating. That is why we use the "Tell-Show-Do" technique. We tell your child what we are going to do in simple, non-scary language; we show them the tool (often on their finger or a stuffed animal); and only then do we do the procedure.

During a comprehensive exam, Dr. Jumani checks far more than just teeth. He evaluates:

• Oral Hygiene: Checking for plaque and tartar buildup.
• Tooth Decay: Identifying cavities in their earliest stages (often before they cause pain).
• Gum Health: Screening for gingivitis or inflammation.
• Growth & Development: Monitoring jaw alignment, bite issues, and the eruption of permanent teeth to catch orthodontic needs early.
• Soft Tissues: Checking the tongue, lips, and cheeks for any abnormalities.

The "Age One" Visit

Following the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) guidelines, we recommend that children establish a "Dental Home" by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.

Why so early?

• Education: We teach you how to clean your baby’s gums and teeth properly.
• Dietary Guidance: We discuss bottle habits, snacking, and how to prevent "Baby Bottle Tooth Decay."
• Acclimatization: It helps your child get used to the dentist before they are old enough to develop fear.

How Often Should My Child Visit?

For most children, we recommend a check-up every six months. Children’s mouths change rapidly. Frequent visits allow Dr. Jumani to track these changes and catch problems (like cavities or crowding) while they are small, easy, and less expensive to fix.

Note: Some children with higher risk of decay or specific orthodontic needs may benefit from more frequent visits. Dr. Jumani will create a schedule that is right for your child.