logo art for Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles and Airway in Marietta GA

Schedule an Appointment Online with Marietta Dentist, Dr. R. David Bradberry, DMD 

Please use the form below for any general inquiries–whether you’re looking for more information or a quick question. For booking appointments, please use the Book an Appointment form.

Name
Are you a current patient?
Perferred day(s) of the week for an appointment?
Preferred time(s) for an appointment?



child smiling after their dental cleaning services at Chattahooche Pediatric Smiles in Marietta GA

Cleanings & Exams

Pediatric Dental Exam & Cleaning in Marietta GA

At Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles & Airway, we believe every child deserves a healthy smile that grows with them. Led by Dr. David Bradberry, a board-certified pediatric dentist with more than 30 years of experience, our Marietta practice provides gentle, personalized dental care for infants through teens. Regular dental exams and cleanings not only protect teeth but also support jaw development, airway health, and lifelong confidence.

happy child smiling after their dental cleaning services at Chattahooche Pediatric Smiles in Marietta GA

When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Exam in?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a child’s first visit by age one or within six months after the first tooth appears. These early exams let Dr. Bradberry evaluate growth, check for early decay, and guide parents on brushing, diet, and airway habits. Early visits also help children feel comfortable in a dental setting, creating a foundation for positive experiences.

How Often Should Children Visit for Dental Cleanings and Check-Ups?

Most children benefit from a routine check-up every six months, though those with higher cavity risk or developing airway concerns may visit more frequently. Consistent visits allow us to track oral growth, strengthen enamel, and reinforce healthy habits before small problems become larger ones. Regular preventive care also helps detect early signs of crowding or mouth-breathing that could affect a child’s bite or sleep.

What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Exam and Cleaning?

Every pediatric dental cleaning at our Marietta practice follows a calm, step-by-step approach:

  • Gentle tooth polishing and plaque removal
  • Fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel (if recommended)
  • Growth and airway screening for early signs of sleep or breathing issues
  • Low-radiation digital X-rays, when needed for diagnostic clarity
  • Personalized brushing, flossing, and nutritional guidance

Our team speaks to children in reassuring, easy-to-understand language. Each visit is designed to build confidence and trust while supporting total-body wellness.

Do Baby Teeth Really Need Professional Cleanings if They’re Going to Fall Out Anyway?

Absolutely. Baby teeth do far more than fill a smile, they guide the alignment of permanent teeth, aid in clear speech, and support healthy chewing and nutrition. When left uncleaned, cavities can cause pain or infection that spreads to adult teeth beneath the gums. Professional children’s teeth cleanings remove buildup that even the best brushing can miss, protecting both short-term comfort and long-term growth.

What Happens if a Child Misses a Routine Cleaning or Exam?

Skipping regular dental check-ups increases the risk of:

  • Cavities or premature tooth loss
  • Gum irritation or inflammation
  • Changes in bite alignment or airway development
  • Undetected habits such as mouth-breathing or thumb-sucking

Routine visits with Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles & Airway keep your child’s oral health on track and prevent issues that can impact their comfort, confidence, and development.

At What Age Do We Transition from Baby Teeth to Permanent Teeth, and How Does That Affect Exam Frequency?

Most children begin losing baby teeth around age six, a process that continues through early adolescence. These years are critical for monitoring jaw alignment, airway growth, and permanent tooth eruption. Consistent pediatric dental exams ensure that new teeth have the space and health they need to thrive. Dr. Bradberry also evaluates whether early orthodontic guidance or myofunctional support could benefit your child’s long-term oral health.

What Should I Do to Prepare My Child for Their First Visit to the Dentist?

A positive first visit sets the tone for a lifetime of healthy habits. Parents can help by:

  • Choosing a morning appointment when children are well-rested (our office opens at 7:15 AM for convenience).
  • Avoiding words like “pain” or “shot.” Instead, frame the visit as an adventure.
  • Bringing a favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal for reassurance.
  • Exploring our Family Education Corner online for videos and printable guides that introduce children to the dental chair in a fun, friendly way.

Our compassionate team explains each step, ensuring your child feels safe and understood from start to finish.

What Happens if My Child Has a Cavity or Other Issue Discovered During the Exam?

If we find a concern, Dr. Bradberry creates a conservative plan tailored to your child’s needs. Treatment options may include:

  • Tooth-colored fillings for discreet, durable dental restoration
  • Silver diamine fluoride to halt early decay without drilling
  • Protective sealants for molars prone to plaque buildup

Our philosophy is “only what’s needed, nothing more.” Every procedure is performed gently, with comfort and growth in mind.

What Are the Best Habits at Home to Support Dental Exams and Cleanings for Children?

Healthy smiles start at home. Families can reinforce professional care by:

  • Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (a pea-sized amount after age 3)
  • Flossing once a day when teeth begin touching
  • Limiting sticky or sugary snacks
  • Encouraging water instead of juice or soda
  • Watching for early signs of mouth-breathing or nighttime grinding
  • Scheduling regular cleanings at Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles & Airway

Together, these habits reduce the risk of decay and support proper growth.

How Much Does a Children’s Dental Exam and Cleaning Cost in Marietta, GA?

Most children’s dental exams and cleanings are covered by insurance. For families without coverage, we provide transparent pricing and flexible payment options. Our team will review benefits before treatment so there are no surprises.

Why Choose Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles & Airway for Your Child’s Dental Care?

  • Gentle, Growth-Focused Approach: Preventive dentistry paired with airway evaluation promotes overall wellness.
  • Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist: Dr. David Bradberry brings decades of clinical expertise and leadership within the Georgia Dental Association.
  • Family-Friendly Convenience: Early-morning hours, easy scheduling, and a calm, kid-centric environment make visits simple and stress-free.
  • Comprehensive, Conservative Dentistry: We combine preventive visits, growth monitoring, and honest communication so families understand every recommendation.

When you choose Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles & Airway, you gain more than a dentist. You gain a partner in your child’s lifelong health.

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Exam & Cleaning in Marietta, GA

Healthy smiles begin with preventive care. At Chattahoochee Pediatric Smiles & Airway, every visit supports your child’s comfort, confidence, and natural growth. Our compassionate team welcomes infants, toddlers, and teens across Marietta, East Cobb, and nearby Atlanta suburbs.

Call our office or schedule online today to book a comprehensive children’s dental exam and cleaning, and help your child enjoy the benefits of a bright, healthy smile for years to come.

child smiling after their dental exams at Chattahooche Pediatric Smiles in Marietta GA