Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important for Kids 

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Despite what you may think, routine cleanings on your child’s baby teeth are just as important as routine cleanings on adult teeth. The overall health of your child’s mouth sets the tone for their oral health for life. Teaching them to properly brush and floss at home is step one, but the next step in healthy smiles for life is making sure to fit in routine dental cleanings. 

Toothbrushes and floss can’t get into all of the ridges and grooves in our teeth, so it’s important to have a professional take a look at them. We recommend bringing your child in for their first visit at age one and coming back for a visit every six months, just as you do for your own teeth. We’ll make sure your child’s oral health regimen sets them up for success for life!

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Schedule A Dental Cleaning Appointment for Your Child Today! 

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Successful Smiles Pediatric Dentristry is here to help your child have a lifetime of healthy smiles . Our board-certified pediatric dentist is here for you, and along with our entire dental team. We can’t wait to have you as a part of our team. Schedule an appointment today to get started! 

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Kids Dental Cleaning FAQs 

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When Can Toothpaste Be Used to Clean a Child’s Teeth? 

It is never too early to use toothpaste to keep your child’s mouth healthy! You can begin at birth by rubbing your child’s gum with a cloth and water. Once teeth begin to appear, you can brush twice daily with a soft infant toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of two, use a “smear” of toothpaste on the soft toothbrush. For kids aged 2-5 years old, you may use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Perform or assist with your child’s tooth brushing as needed, until they are able to brush and spit out the toothpaste appropriately.

What is a Fluoride Treatment? 

Fluoride treatment is important for strengthening the enamel of your child’s teeth and is quickly applied in only a few minutes. Fluoride treatments come in two types – fluoride varnish and fluoride gel. Your pediatric dentist will choose the fluoride treatment based on what is most appropriate for your child. 

For fluoride gel, the application takes just a few minutes, and your child will need to refrain from eating or drinking for 30 minutes. For fluoride varnish, your dentist will apply the treatment with a soft brush and your child will need to refrain from eating for approximately 4 to 6 hours.

Can Cavities Be Avoided? 

You can help your child have great oral health through diet and a dental hygiene routine! Help your child remember to do these things to avoid cavities and have a healthy smile:

• Avoid sugary foods

• Brush twice daily

• Floss daily 

• Use a fluoride toothpaste

• Talk to your dentist about an at-home fluoride supplement

• Limit snacking

Also, talk to your child’s dentist about sealants and fluoride treatments at your next visit. Both services are safe for your child and can help lower the risk of cavities.

How Often Should We Change a Toothbrush? 

For adults and children, your toothbrush should be changed every 3 months. This ensures you are getting the most effective cleaning at home. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the manufacturer’s suggestion on changing the toothbrush head because it may be up to six months. If you have gum disease, change your toothbrush every four to six weeks to keep bacteria from building up.