Routine dental cleanings and exams are the best way to avoid dental issues and help your child maintain optimal oral health.

Cleanings and Exams

Dr. Carlos recommends a routine dental exam and cleaning every six months to give your child the best chance of avoiding tooth decay and other dental issues. These regular appointments are an essential component of lifelong oral health and a confident smile for your little one.

We view these routine visits as a way to get to know you and your child and provide valuable hygiene tips. Our goal is for your child to look forward to seeing us and learn the value of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

What Happens at a Routine Dental Appointment?

When you bring your child to Summitview Pediatric Dentistry, you’ll quickly realize that we don’t rush through appointments. We want your child’s time with us to be fun and educational.

Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

Welcome — We’ll greet your child and allow them to explore the treatment room and dental tools.
Cleaning — Once your child is comfortable, we’ll use our child-friendly equipment to gently remove the plaque and tartar from their teeth and floss between each tooth.
Exam — Dr. Carlos will examine your child’s teeth and gums, checking their bite alignment, tooth development, and gum health.
X-rays — If necessary, we’ll take any x-rays, making it possible to see decay between your child’s teeth.
Education — Before you leave, we’ll review proper brushing and flossing technique and discuss proper dietary habits.

Exploring the Benefits of Cleanings and Exams in Yakima

Scheduling regular dental cleanings and exams twice a year provides numerous benefits to their smile, confidence, and overall health. Some of the benefits include the following:

Cavity Prevention

A professional dental cleaning removes the plaque and tartar that your child’s toothbrush can miss. This can help prevent tooth decay.

Early Detection

When we examine your child’s teeth on a regular basis, we can monitor their development and address concerns before they worsen.

Decreased Anxiety

Regular dental visits show your child that there’s nothing to fear, making them less likely to feel anxious or scared during their appointment.

Boosted Confidence

When your child has healthy teeth and gums, they can eat and speak confidently. This could boost their self-esteem and protect their self-image.

Testimonial

The visits are quick but thorough with little waiting around.

Summitview Pediatric Dentistry is a great choice if you are looking for a dentist for your child. Dr. Dorantes and his staff are great with the children, even with ones who may be scared or nervous about going to the dentist. The visits are quick but thorough with little waiting around. My questions and concerns have always been addressed in a kind professional manner.
-Damien

See More Testimonials

Maintaining a Healthy Smile at Home: What Parents Can Do

There are numerous things you can do to help your child keep their smile healthy between dental visits:

Establish a brushing routine in which your child brushes for at least two minutes in the morning and at night. Make sure your child uses a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. You can make it fun by letting your child choose their toothbrush or playing a song while they brush.
Show your child how to floss between their teeth as soon as they have two teeth that touch each other. Once they’re a little older, they can floss on their own.
Limit the amount of sugary snacks and drinks, including soda, juice, and candy. And when your child does eat or drink something that contains sugar, have them rinse their mouth with water or brush their teeth when they’re finished.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare my child for their first dental visit?

Your child’s first dental visit can feel like a big milestone, for them and for you. It’s completely normal to hope the experience is filled with smiles rather than tears, and with curiosity rather than fear. With a little preparation and the right support, that first visit can become a positive memory that sets the tone for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.

At Summitview Pediatric Dentistry, we believe first visits should feel welcoming, empowering, and even a little fun.

The simple answer is this: prepare your child with positivity, simplicity, and reassurance. Talk about the visit in an upbeat, calm, and encouraging way. Let your child know the dentist is a friendly helper who checks teeth to keep them strong.

Simple Ways to Help Your Child Feel Confident and Ready

A little planning goes a long way in helping your child walk in feeling relaxed and curious. Helpful tips include:

Read children’s books or watch videos about first dental visits.
Play “dentist” at home, letting your child practice opening wide.
Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is well-rested.
Keep your own emotions calm and positive, as children often mirror their parents.
Reassure them that you’ll be nearby and that it’s okay to ask questions.

The first visit is usually short and gentle, focused on introductions, a simple exam, and building trust, not on treatment. Our team takes time to move at your child’s pace and celebrate their bravery every step of the way.

Ready to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit?

You don’t have to navigate this milestone alone. Our experienced, compassionate team is here to make your child’s first dental visit a happy and stress-free experience.

Contact Summitview Pediatric Dentistry at (509) 966-4433 to schedule your child’s first appointment and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles built on trust and comfort.

OUR TEAM

Dr. Carlos Dorantes DDS, MS

Dr. Carlos Dorantes received his dental degree from Francisco Marroquin University in Guatemala and practiced in his hometown for three years, focusing mainly on children’s dentistry. In 1999, Dr. Dorantes moved to Birmingham and began his specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Alabama Dental School (UAB). UAB’s Pediatric Dental Residency is a challenging 3-year dental school and hospital-based program; this gave Dr. Dorantes the unique opportunity to practice at the world-renowned Children’s Hospital of Alabama.

When he was not busy with patients or academic work, Dr. Dorantes worked ...

Does Your Child Need a Dental Cleaning?

If so, the experienced team at Summitview Pediatric Dentistry is ready to take your call! We offer convenient hours so you can schedule your child’s appointment and get back to your busy day. Feel free to give us a call at (509) 966-4433.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Cleanings and Exams Technology

Digital X-Rays and Sensors

We’ve replaced traditional film x-rays with digital x-rays and sensors, allowing us to electronically capture high-resolution images of your child’s teeth and jaw. These images are easily viewed on a computer screen, making it possible to diagnose dental issues in real time and answer your questions.

We can also zoom in to better understand what’s going on, which leads to improved treatment planning and a better way to educate parents about what’s happening inside their child’s mouth.

View More Cleanings and Exams Technology