Children are naturally nervous around dentists, but a skilled pediatric dentist can ease their worries and ensure they get the best dental care. As is apparent from the name, these dentists specialize in children's oral health throughout their childhood. Without proper care, tooth decay and disease are imminent and can last well into adulthood.Kids Dental Visits and Exams
If you are worried about your child's dental cleaning or oral health in general, you should first reassure them. A pediatric dentist has the skills and qualifications to do this and can ease your child's fear during their dental visit.
Delaying the exam can cause dental issues that may require surgery. The dentist will diagnose potential issues early and advise on how to maintain your child's oral health.
What Happens At A Pediatric Dental Cleaning?
Regular dental cleanings for children are pretty straightforward. Here is what you can expect during the appointment:
Initial Evaluation
The dentist will explain the procedure to you and your child and what to expect. Their assistant may take pictures of the child's mouth to ensure they don't miss anything and check for abnormalities they may otherwise not be able to see.
Physical Examination
Then, the dentist will check the soft tissues in the mouth to see if the teeth are developing correctly. Using a curved and painless tool, they will gently poke the teeth and gums during the checkup. They will inform the child they are just counting their teeth so there is no need to become alarmed.
The Cleaning
The dentist will use an electric tool to polish and clean the teeth using flavored toothpaste. They will focus on hard plaque or tartar and use the curved tool to remove it. Once done, the dentist may apply a fluoride varnish on the clean teeth using a Q-tip, which can be washed out after a few minutes.
After the dental cleaning and if the dentist doesn't find any cavities, they will detail an oral hygiene routine, which you should ensure your child follows at home. If the parent allows it, they can also recommend dental sealants for the next appointment or apply it right after the procedure. These protect teeth from cavities.
What Services Do Pediatric Dentists Offer?
Besides kids dental cleanings, a pediatric dentist offers the following services:
Oral Checkups
Frequent pediatric dental checkups can help prevent cavities and other dental issues from developing. The dentist will check the child's teeth and gums and create a treatment plan as needed.
Root Canal
If a cavity is allowed to reach the root pulp chamber in a child's jaw, a root canal is recommended. At this point, the infection destroys a major portion of baby teeth and nerves. During this procedure, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and nerve, fills the gap with a special medicated material, and covers it with a crown.
If you want to get your child's teeth cleaned professionally, book a consultation and checkup with Tracy H. Takenaka, DDS, MSD at Children's Dentistry of DuPont. Please remember that delays can cause serious oral diseases that compromise your child's health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should My Child Have a Dental Cleaning?
Children should have a dental cleaning every six months. Regular cleanings help prevent cavities, monitor oral health, and instill good dental hygiene habits early on.
How Can I Prepare My Child for Their First Dental Cleaning?
To prepare your child for their first dental cleaning, talk to them about what to expect in a positive and reassuring manner. Read books or watch videos about dental visits to familiarize them with the process. Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is well-rested and not hungry. Arrive early to allow them to acclimate to the dental office environment. Most importantly, stay calm and supportive to help ease any anxiety they may have.