An essential part of maintaining your child’s oral health is having regular professional cleanings.
During your cleaning appointment, we will:
- Remove plaque and calculus. Plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria that attack tooth enamel, causing cavities and inflaming the gums. Plaque left on teeth over time hardens and becomes calculus (tartar), which can only be removed with dental instruments. Without proper care, plaque and calculus can lead to periodontal disease.
- Polish teeth. This final step removes minor stains and any remaining plaque, making teeth their whitest and brightest!
- Treat with fluoride. Your dentist may suggest a fluoride treatment to help their teeth remineralize and stay strong.
For most children, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a professional cleaning every six months to keep their mouths healthy and avoid the number one chronic childhood infection: tooth decay. The AAPD also recommends that a child receives their first dental exam and cleaning within the first 6 months after a tooth erupts. This typically means before the age of 1.