Dental Checkups

Going to the dentist helps keep your teeth healthy. A dental checkup is a visit where the dentist looks at your teeth. Kids should see the dentist two times every year. These visits help stop problems before they start.

What Happens at a Checkup

At the dentist, you sit in a big chair that leans back. The dentist uses a little mirror to look at all your teeth. A helper called a hygienist will clean your teeth. They use special tools to scrape away plaque. Sometimes they take pictures called X-rays to see inside your teeth.

Why Checkups Matter

Dental checkups help find cavities early. A cavity is a small hole in a tooth. The dentist can fix it before it grows bigger. Checkups also clean spots you may have missed with your toothbrush. Your dentist will also show you the best way to brush and floss.

Fun Facts

• Most kids should visit the dentist twice a year.
• Tooth enamel is the hardest thing in your body.
• A dentist may give you a new toothbrush after your visit.

Did You Know?

February is National Children's Dental Health Month, when dentists teach kids about taking care of their teeth.