Can the Dentist Clean a Child’s Teeth?
August 27, 2022 7:32 pm |Visiting the dentist for regular cleanings is an essential part of great oral hygiene. Most people should come in for cleanings and exams every six months, though patients with gum disease or other dental issues may need more cleanings. Children also need regular preventive dental care!
Should I Brush My Child’s Teeth?
Babies usually get their first tooth between 6-12 months old. Although a child’s baby teeth will start falling out around age 6 to make way for their permanent teeth, their baby teeth still need to be regularly cleaned! You should start brushing their teeth with a baby toothbrush and a dot of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. We like the soft bristles, adorable shape, and ease of holding the Dr. Brown’s Flamingo Baby and Toddler Toothbrush.
Do Kids Need Regular Cleanings?
If a child’s baby teeth are unhealthy and suffering from cavities, the teeth can fall out too early and endanger the health of the underlying permanent teeth. In addition to daily brushing at home, your child will greatly benefit from routine visits to the dentist for a checkup and professional cleaning to prevent dental disease. Their dental team will clean off plaque buildup, polish and floss their teeth, check for issues, apply fluoride to strengthen their enamel, answer any questions you may have, and suggest ways to improve their oral health habits.
When Should Kids Start Getting Routine Cleanings?
Kids should start visiting a dentist by age 1 or shortly after their first tooth erupts. A dentist will check their teeth and jaw development, look for any issues, and clean their teeth. These early visits are usually very short, usually lasting less than 15 minutes. Visits for older children last a bit longer.
Our office begins seeing kids starting at 4 years old. While we’re often not the first dentist a child has seen, our team understands that many kids can feel anxiety at the dentist. We prioritize each patient’s comfort and safety and do our best to make our office a welcoming space!
Kids’ Dentistry in Inman & Spartanburg, SC
Like adults, kids need their teeth cleaned at least twice a year. Cleanings protect them from cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Please contact us if you have any questions about routine cleanings, at-home oral hygiene, or any of our services!
Categorised in: Family Dental Care
