Dental Exam

During a dental exam, a mirror is used to examine the teeth as well as the soft tissues of the oral cavity. Radiographs may be taken if needed. A dental exam is entirely painless and only involves superficial examination and evaluation of the mouth. With a young infant or small child, Dr. Sheppard will recommend examining the child utilizing a “Lap-to-Lap approach”. This is where the child sits on the adult’s lap and faces them. Dr. Sheppard or his assistant will then sit knee to knee with the adult and they will have the adult tip the child back until the child’s head rests on Dr. Sheppard’s knees. This allows the caregiver to still maintain contact and reassure the child, and also allows Dr. Sheppard to see everything he needs to for the exam.

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