Welcome to Pediatric Dentistry of Reston—where every visit is more than a checkup; it’s an adventure—or as we like to call it, a “dental safari.” Our vibrant, safari‑themed office, complete with age‑appropriate waiting areas and bright exam rooms, helps your child feel at ease from the moment they arrive. We believe in combining expert dental care with kindness, making your child’s experience both positive and educational.
Why These Visits Matter
Routine dental checkups and prophylaxis (professional cleanings) are the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We recommend visiting Dr. Neda, Dr. Zaidi, or Dr. Fernandes every six months. This schedule allows us to detect and address dental issues early—such as cavities, early signs of gum disease, or enamel concerns—long before they cause discomfort or require extensive treatment.
These twice‑yearly visits help:
- Remove plaque and tartar buildup (often invisible to the eye)
- Spot early decay or developmental concerns
- Provide a clean, comfortable environment for learning about oral hygiene
What’s Involved in a Prophylaxis Appointment?
A dental prophylaxis—or “prophy”—is much more than just a cleaning:
- We gently remove plaque, tartar (hard tartar), and surface stains using age‑appropriate tools—and, when needed, a soft rubber cup or hand instruments.
- The teeth are polished; this not only removes stains but makes the enamel smoother, helping to slow future buildup.
- It helps us perform a high‑quality oral exam by presenting clear views of all the hard and soft tissues in the mouth.
- We also take time to teach both child and parent proper brushing and flossing techniques—tailoring advice to your child’s age and developmental stage.
Gentle Care, Big Impact
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry strongly supports regular prophylaxis as a key part of pediatric oral health care—not only for cleaning purposes but also to build comfort and trust with young patients.
Starting this habit early—our team encourages a child’s first dental visit by age one or within six months of their first tooth erupting—sets the stage for a positive dental “home” and lifelong oral health habits.
Tailored to Your Child’s Needs
Every child’s mouth is unique. Together, we assess their risk for cavities or gum issues and recommend a care schedule that fits their needs. While a clean and check every six months is standard, children at higher risk for decay or other concerns may benefit from more frequent visits or additional preventive treatments like fluoride varnish or sealants.
What You and Your Child Can Expect
- A warm welcome—from our safari-themed entry to our team’s playful, child-friendly approach.
- A gentle and thorough exam where your child is always in control. We stop whenever needed to answer questions or let them take a break.
- Cleaning that’s both effective and comfortable; our goal is to keep it pain-free and even fun.
- Personalized oral hygiene tips and demonstrations—so you leave not just with clean teeth, but with confidence to keep them healthy between visits.
- Peace of mind—knowing your child’s oral health is in expert hands that prioritize prevention, education, and positivity.
At Pediatric Dentistry of Reston, we believe every routine exam and cleaning is more than just a health check—it’s an opportunity to teach, reassure, and make dentistry something your child looks forward to. Ready to start their dental adventure? Schedule today!