Year-End Dental Review: What Parents Should Check Before 2026

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time for parents to ensure their child’s dental health is on track. A comprehensive year-end dental review helps prevent issues, supports healthy habits, and sets your child up for a confident smile in the new year. Here’s what every parent should check before 2026, especially if you’re searching for a pediatric dentist San Diego, CA parents trust.

• Prevention is key: Early detection of dental issues like cavities, gum disease, or misalignment can save time, money, and discomfort for your child.
• Academic and social benefits: Healthy teeth and gums support better concentration, attendance, and self-esteem at school.
• Establishing lifelong habits: Regular checkups reinforce the importance of oral hygiene and help children develop routines that last a lifetime.

1. Schedule a Comprehensive Dental Exam

 

• Book an appointment with your pediatric dentist in San Diego, CA, for a thorough oral health assessment.
• The dentist will review your child’s dental and medical history, examine teeth and gums, check bite alignment, and take X-rays if needed.

 

2. Cavity and Decay Screening

 

• Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood diseases, but it’s highly preventable.
• Dentists look for early signs such as white spots, sensitivity, or discoloration and may recommend sealants or fluoride treatments for extra protection.

 

3. Professional Dental Cleaning

 

• Even with good brushing at home, professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas.
• Cleanings reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease, ensuring a fresh start for the new year.

 

4. Orthodontic Evaluation

 

• As children grow, their teeth and jaws change rapidly.
• Your pediatric dentist will check for crowding, bite issues, or misalignment and may suggest early orthodontic intervention if needed.

 

5. Review Oral Hygiene Habits

 

• Make sure your child is brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
• Flossing should be part of the daily routine, especially for children with teeth that touch.

 

6. Nutrition and Lifestyle Check

 

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which are a leading cause of cavities in children.
• Encourage water and healthy snacks, and discuss any concerns about diet or oral habits (like thumb-sucking) with your dentist.

 

7. Update Dental Supplies

 

• Replace toothbrushes every three months or after illness.
• Let your child choose a fun toothbrush to encourage regular use.

 

8. Plan for Sports and Activities

 

• If your child plays sports, ask your dentist about custom mouthguards to protect their teeth from injury.

• Infants and Toddlers: Schedule the first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth. Discuss teething, feeding habits, and fluoride needs with your dentist.
• School-Age Children: Monitor for early orthodontic needs and reinforce brushing and flossing routines.
• Teens: Watch for wisdom teeth development and encourage mouthguard use for sports.

At Sunray Pediatric Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing gentle, expert care for every stage of your child’s dental development. As a leading pediatric dentist in San Diego, CA, we offer comprehensive exams, preventive treatments, and personalized guidance to keep your child’s smile healthy year-round.

 

Book your child’s year-end dental review today and start 2026 with a confident, healthy smile.