Dental Cleaning

What happens during a children’s dental cleaning appointment?

First, there's an exam. A dental professional at Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry visually inspects your child's gums and teeth, checking for any apparent abnormalities. X-rays may be considered if your child is due for them.

Next, it's time for the actual cleaning to begin. The hygienist or dentist will use a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your child's teeth. A scaler is a small metal dental instrument. Depending on the level of tartar buildup, this part of the cleaning process may take some time.

Once the plaque and tartar buildup has been scraped off, the hygienist or dentist uses a unique, high-powered brush and polishing toothpaste to brush your child’s teeth thoroughly. Lastly, your child is given a fluoride treatment to strengthen their teeth until your next visit.

How often should my child have a dental cleaning?

Your child’s dental cleaning frequency depends on their general dental health. Twice a year is the standard recommendation. The American Dental Association, the nation's leading source of oral health information, advises talking with your child’s dentist about their unique dental cleaning needs.

Even with common procedures like routine dental cleanings, consulting with the expert team at Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry about your unique situation is an important part of getting excellent care. The best way to get the right care for your child is to follow a program that's tailored to their needs, not an "off-the-shelf" one that's made for the average person.

Why are dental cleanings important for my child?

Oral health is not separate from overall health. In fact, studies show that poor oral health, including cavities and gum disease, can lead to more serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.

Routine dental cleanings, checkups, and talking with your child’s dentist all play a crucial role in maintaining exceptional health. Additionally, regular dental cleanings can catch potentially serious problems early on before they get worse.

How long does a dental cleaning take?

The length of your child’s dental cleaning appointment depends on their unique oral health needs. However, most patients are in and out of the office within 60-90 minutes. If you have a commitment later in the day, let your provider know and they can adjust treatment as necessary.

If it's been more than six months since your child last had their teeth professionally cleaned, book a consultation online, or call Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry today.