Dental cleanings are an important part of your child’s routine oral health care. Brushing and flossing every day is necessary, but it isn’t enough. Professional cleanings at the dentist clean deeper and more thoroughly, reaching areas that may get missed at home.
Knowing what you can expect at a pediatric dental cleaning can ensure that you and your child are prepared. So, let’s dive right in.
Why Are Pediatric Dental Cleanings Important?
As an adult, you know that your teeth are vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease if you do not properly care for them. The same holds for your child, with both primary and permanent teeth at risk. Those who are too young to be fully skilled in their oral hygiene routine are at even greater risk for issues.
Professional pediatric dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing can’t. This reduces the chance of cavities and gum inflammation. The dentist will perform an oral examination to look for any early signs of concern. If any arise, they can be addressed before they become more complex.
The hygienist and dentist often use these visits as teaching moments, educating kids on the importance of healthy habits and proper techniques for care. This can help build the foundation for a lifetime of oral health—and further minimize their chance of more in-depth oral health problems today and in the future.
What to Expect During Your Pediatric Dental Cleaning
Pediatric dental cleanings may vary based on the age of your child. For instance, infants with only one or two teeth may get a gentle cleaning and an examination, with a greater focus on discussion with the parents.
Kids getting a full cleaning will be greeted with a warm welcome to ensure they feel comfortable and at ease. Special dental instruments will be used to remove plaque and tartar, getting between the teeth and along the gumline. This is usually followed up by polishing, in which a fun-flavored paste is used to smooth the teeth so plaque finds it harder to stick to.
Flossing will be done to remove anything that is left behind, followed by a fluoride treatment to strengthen the enamel and protect against cavities.
Once the teeth and gums are fresh and clean, the dentist will come in to do a thorough examination. They will look for signs of decay, as well as assess bite alignment and jaw development. Consider this the perfect time to ask any questions you may have or bring up any concerns.
The entire visit should not last more than an hour. It’s a short amount of time for the long list of benefits you are providing for your child’s oral health and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental cleanings painful for kids?
No, dental cleanings are gentle and without pain. There could be some new sensations and sounds they may experience, but the child-sized tools that are used allow the cleaning to be completed with ease.
How often should my child have a dental cleaning?
Typically, kids should visit the dentist every 6 months for a cleaning. However, those at a higher risk for cavities or gum issues may be advised to have more frequent cleanings.
At Orange County Pediatric Dentistry, our compassionate team works hard to make dental visits fun, educational, and worry-free. If your child is due for a cleaning, schedule an appointment today.