Helping your child develop a healthy smile starts with routine dental care. At Smiley Dental Group in Columbus, OH, Dr. Holowicki, Dr. Moore, and Dr. Renshaw provide gentle pediatric dentistry that keeps your child’s teeth and gums healthy while helping them feel comfortable and confident during every visit.
From your child’s first dental visit to regular checkups throughout childhood, our goal is to create positive experiences that build lifelong habits for great oral health.
Why Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings Matter
Routine dental exams and professional cleanings play a vital role in protecting your child’s oral health. These visits help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems that may not be visible to the naked eye.
During each appointment, our pediatric dentists and dental hygienists gently remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t reach. We also monitor your child’s oral development, checking for early signs of cavities, crowding, or gum inflammation. Early detection allows us to treat small issues before they become more serious, supporting your child’s overall health and confidence in their smile.
When to Begin Dental Visits
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend scheduling a child’s first dental exam by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
Starting at a young age helps your child feel comfortable in the dental office and allows us to teach good habits early — from brushing with fluoride toothpaste (just a small amount, the size of a grain of rice) to understanding how food choices affect their teeth.
Early preventive care also helps parents learn how to care for baby teeth, manage thumb sucking, and prevent common issues like baby bottle tooth decay.
Proper Flossing Technique
Proper Brushing Technique
How Often Should Kids See the Dentist?
For most children, dental exams and cleanings every six months are recommended. Regular visits help us reinforce good oral hygiene, provide fluoride treatments, and apply dental sealants when needed to protect against cavities.
Some children who are prone to tooth decay or gum problems may need more frequent visits — and we’ll always customize your child’s schedule based on their specific oral health needs.
What to Expect During Your Child’s Appointment
We make every dental visit calm, educational, and encouraging. During your child’s appointment, you can expect:
Our approach focuses on comfort and education — helping your child feel confident about their smile and proud of their healthy habits.
When to Schedule an Extra Visit
If your child experiences sensitivity, swelling, bad breath, or loses a baby tooth earlier than expected, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit sooner. These symptoms may point to dental issues that require early attention to protect your child’s developing permanent teeth.
A Positive Start to Lifelong Dental Health
At Smiley Dental Group, we want every child to enjoy a positive experience at the dentist. Our team’s gentle approach, clear explanations, and caring environment help children feel safe and supported throughout every stage of care.
We believe early, consistent dental care leads to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Call 614-889-0726 or book online to schedule your child’s next dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Holowicki, Dr. Moore, and Dr. Renshaw. New patients are always welcome!