At Around The World Pediatric Dentistry, dental hygienists serve as personal oral health coaches for every child and family. From the moment you arrive, these dedicated professionals take the lead in carefully assessing your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth, ensuring a thorough and comfortable experience. Their preventive focus means they not only provide gentle, effective cleanings but also work closely with parents and children—educating, guiding, and empowering them to maintain strong oral health at home. By identifying issues early and prioritizing prevention, the hygienists create a foundation for healthier smiles and greater confidence in every child they serve.

Comprehensive Oral Examination

Before Dr. Hannah Ahn comes in for her assessment, a skilled dental hygienist at Around The World Pediatric Dentistry begins with a comprehensive oral examination tailored for children. This process includes carefully measuring your child’s gums and checking bone development to watch for any early signs of gum disease or developmental concerns. The hygienist uses gentle, specialized tools to check every tooth for early cavities and thoroughly inspects the soft tissues of the mouth for anything unusual. These screenings are all designed with kids’ comfort in mind and form a critical first step in your child’s personalized oral health plan.

  • Checking Gums and Bones: They carefully measure the pockets between your teeth and gums to screen for signs of gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy mouth, and early detection is crucial.
  • Screening for Cavities: Using specialized tools, they inspect each tooth surface for signs of decay. Identifying cavities in their initial stages allows for simpler and less invasive treatment.
  • Oral Cancer Screening: Hygienists are trained to look for any abnormalities in the soft tissues of your mouth, including your tongue, cheeks, and palate, which could be early indicators of oral cancer.

Hydrophilic vs. Hydrophobic: Choosing the Right Sealant

Not all sealants are created equal. They primarily fall into two categories:

  • Hydrophobic Sealants: These are traditional, resin-based sealants. The term “hydrophobic” means “water-fearing.” For these sealants to bond effectively, the tooth surface must be perfectly dry. This can be challenging to achieve in the mouth, and any moisture can compromise the sealant’s effectiveness, potentially leading to failure.
  • Hydrophilic Sealants: A more advanced option, “hydrophilic” means “water-loving.” These sealants are designed to work effectively in a moist environment. They are often made from materials that are plastic-free and biocompatible. While they may cost more—sometimes up to five times as much as their hydrophobic counterparts—their reliability and durability in the naturally wet conditions of the mouth make them a superior long-term investment in cavity prevention. Many are also a great option for patients with specific allergies.

At Around The World Pediatric Dentistry, hygienists are highly trained to discuss all sealant options and recommend the best type for your child’s specific needs.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

The next time your child visits Around The World Pediatric Dentistry, take a moment to appreciate the specialized knowledge and compassionate care provided by their dental hygienists. Their dedicated work forms the backbone of pediatric dental care at the practice, helping to ensure every child’s mouth stays healthy and problems are prevented before they begin. With a focus on early detection and personalized preventive treatments, the hygienists at Around The World Pediatric Dentistry truly make a lasting difference in every young patient’s oral health journey.

Ready to give your child the very best in preventive dental care? Schedule an appointment with Around The World Pediatric Dentistry today and experience the difference compassionate, professional hygienists can make for your family. Let our team help your child achieve a brighter, healthier smile and set the foundation for lifelong oral wellness—contact us now to book your visit!