The Importance of Professional Teeth Cleaning for Kids: A Parent’s Guide
We want our children to be healthy and happy. A big part of that is taking care of their smiles. It may seem that professional teeth cleaning is only for adults, but children also need it. This guide explains why regular teeth cleanings for children are important and what to expect at each visit.
Why Professional Teeth Cleaning Matters for Kids
Children are more susceptible to decay and cavities due to their sweet tooth, love of juice and simple daily activities. The professional cleanings are more effective than regular brushing. These cleanings can reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities by removing plaque and tartar.
Building Healthy Habits For Life!
Early dental care teaches children that self-care includes taking care their teeth. Regular dental visits will reduce the likelihood of children developing anxiety or fear. They’ll see the dental office as a friendly place where professionals can help them maintain a healthy smile.
It can be difficult to detect dental issues without the aid of a trained eye. Professional cleanings are also a great way for dentists to detect potential problems early like weak enamel, cavities, and misalignment. Early detection can lead to quicker and simpler treatments, and prevent costly or complicated ones in the future.
Learn from the pros how to develop good habits
Children learn best by example. And who better than professionals to teach them? Dental hygienists or pediatric dentists will demonstrate to kids the proper brushing and flossing technique. They can show them how to effectively clean all corners of their mouth. Hygienists often take time to explain how certain foods and beverages can affect the teeth. This information is useful for both parents and children.
What to Expect During a Professional Cleaning for Kids
1. The Initial Examination
A quick exam is the first step in any cleaning. Your child’s dentist or hygienist checks their teeth for any signs of decay or cavities. The dentist or hygienist may take X-rays if they haven’t seen your child in a while, or if certain areas need to be examined more closely.
2. Comprehensive Cleaning
The hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar, paying particular attention to the areas that are difficult to reach using a toothbrush. Then, the hygienist will polish the teeth to make them shiny and smooth. This also prevents bacteria from sticking to the surface.
3. Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is often used to finish pediatric cleanings. This simple step helps strengthen the enamel of teeth, increasing its resistance to decay. It also protects those newly erupted teeth. Fluoride treatments can be done quickly and painlessly, with lasting benefits.
Learn about Home Care and Get Tips
The hygienist will give you some tips before your appointment to help make it easier for you to brush and floss at home. You might get some fun ideas, like letting your child choose their toothbrush or brushing along to a favorite tune.
How to Make Your Child Feel More Comfortable When Visiting the Dentist
It can be a bit intimidating for children to visit the dentist, especially if this is their first experience. Here are some tips for making each visit enjoyable:
Discuss the experience in a positive way (Instead of focusing on the unfamiliar parts, focus on the fun ones! Mention the staff’s friendliness, the comfortable chairs or the prize that they may receive at the end).
Role play a dentist visit at home (It is possible to make your child more comfortable by role-playing the dentist’s visit. Show them that a dental checkup can be gentle by taking turns playing the role of the dentist).
Bring their Comfort Items (When they are accompanied by a blanket, book, or toy that is special to them, younger children feel more secure. Allowing them to hold a comfort item will make a huge difference in how they feel).
Wrapping up: A small step with big benefits
Every child is different, and while twice-yearly cleanings are recommended as a standard, each child has their own unique needs. The dentist may suggest more frequent dental visits for children with higher risks of cavities or other dental issues. Regular cleanings ensure that your child’s teeth get the attention they require.
Routine professional cleanings of your child’s teeth are more than a simple dental appointment. They’re an investment for their long-term confidence and health. Making dental cleanings your priority will help you create a healthy smile for life. If it has been some time since your child had a cleaning, you should consider making an appointment as soon as possible. We want to make your child’s visit enjoyable, educational and fun.
