As parents, we always want the best for our children. When it comes to their overall health and development, healthy smiles play a crucial role. Establishing good dental hygiene habits at an early age is key to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
One of the most important things parents can do for their child’s dental health is to plan a pediatric dental cleaning and exam every six months, even when their child doesn’t have any noticeable dental concerns.
Benefits of Pediatric Dental Cleanings
Routine dental cleanings for children allow our Wheat Ridge dental team to help your family when it comes to:
Preventing Tooth Decay: Children are prone to cavities and tooth decay, especially with the consumption of sugary snacks, processed carbs, and sweet sports drinks and juice. Regular cleanings, sealants, and fluoride help remove plaque buildup and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Early Detection of Dental Issues: Frequent dental checkups allow our Wheat Ridge dentists to identify potential concerns when they’re just starting to form. This early detection allows for early intervention and minimally-invasive treatments for kids.
Promoting Good Oral Habits: Pediatric dental cleanings serve as an opportunity to educate children about proper oral hygiene habits in an age-appropriate manner. Our friendly dental team will keep your child engaged and help them learn new skills to take home.
Boosting Confidence: A healthy and beautiful smile can have a significant impact on a child’s self-esteem, speech development, and social relationships as they grow and interact with their peers.
What to Expect During a Pediatric Cleaning
Bringing your child for a pediatric dental cleaning at Kid Focus Dentistry in Wheat Ridge is a positive and stress-free experience. Our team of experienced dentists and hygienists loves working with children to create a friendly and relaxed environment.
During your child’s checkup, our dentists will start by gently examining your child’s mouth to check for any dental issues and assess their overall oral health. Next, our skilled dental hygienist will then perform a thorough cleaning, polishing of the teeth, and fluoride treatment may to provide extra protection against tooth decay. Throughout the process, our dental team will engage with your child, educating them on proper brushing and home care habits. If your child is old enough for dental sealants, we can also discuss that at this time.
Age for the First Pediatric Dental Cleaning
Your child’s first dental checkup should be scheduled sometime around their first birthday or whenever their first teeth come in. As your child becomes more accustomed to their trips to the dentist’s office, we’ll slowly begin easing into the hygienist cleaning their teeth. This may be sometime around age 2-3, depending on the child. By that point, we will have observed all of their baby teeth coming in and have a head start on any potential issues that we can help prevent. But if your child has never been to a family or pediatric dentist before, the team at Kid Focus Dentistry can help get things back on track!
Tips for Preparing a Child for a Dental Cleaning
At Kid Focus Dentistry, we understand that some children may feel anxious about visiting the dentist. Here are some helpful tips to prepare your child for a dental cleaning:
Talk Positively: Explain to your child that a dental cleaning is a way to keep their teeth strong and healthy. Use positive language and avoid using words that may scare or create anxiety, such as “hurt” or “scary,” even if you’re saying what isn’t going to be involved.
Role Play: Practice visiting the dentist at home by taking turns pretending to be the dentist and the patient and brushing/counting each other’s teeth or “examining” their favorite stuffed animal. This playful approach can ease any fear of the unknown.
Read Books About Dentists: There are plenty of children’s books that explore dental visits in a friendly and informative manner. Reading these books together can make your child feel more at ease.
Lead by Example: Show your child that dental visits are a regular part of life by talking positively about your own dental appointments.
Schedule Your Child’s Cleaning Today
At Kid Focus Dentistry in Wheat Ridge, CO, we are committed to providing the best possible care for your child’s oral health. Our team of dentists and friendly staff will ensure that your child’s pediatric dental cleaning is a pleasant and rewarding experience. Don’t wait any longer; schedule your child’s dental cleaning today to pave the way for a lifetime of healthy teeth!
