Extra Gentle Care for Their Gums and Teeth
Kids need regular dental visits, just like adults. Professional cleanings and check-ups are key to maintaining their oral health and supporting proper development. Cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum issues, bad breath, and even impact the alignment of their adult teeth. A child-friendly hygienist can clean those tricky spots that brushing and flossing might miss.
After cleaning, the hygienist and dentist assess your child’s oral health, check on baby teeth coming in or falling out, and track the alignment of emerging adult teeth. We’ll provide guidance on what to monitor and share personalised tips for at-home care tailored to your child’s needs.
Regular cleanings and check-ups for kids:
- Promote strong, healthy teeth as they grow.
- Reduce the risk of gum problems and support overall oral wellness.
- Track their dental milestones and changes.
- Build comfort and trust with the dental team.
- Encourage kids to take ownership of their oral care.
- Foster habits that ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.
What Happens During Children’s Teeth Cleaning?
To begin, we assess your child’s dental records to pinpoint areas that may need attention and identify any patterns of concern. We may also perform X-rays or suggest treatments like fluoride or sealants to protect developing adult teeth. Using child-friendly language, we help your child feel at ease while addressing their thoughts or questions about their dental care.
Gum Health
Gums provide essential support for teeth and contribute to a healthy smile. As permanent teeth emerge, gum health becomes especially important. We carefully evaluate the soft tissues in your child’s mouth and offer practical, age-appropriate advice to encourage healthy gums and proper flossing habits.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Over time, a sticky layer called plaque forms on teeth, and without regular cleaning, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can lead to decay and gum issues, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach. Our hygienist gently removes these deposits and may recommend fluoride to help protect and strengthen enamel after cleaning.
Watching For Milestones
As children grow, their dental needs evolve. Baby teeth appear between 6 months and 6 years, with permanent teeth replacing them over time. Each child develops at their own pace, so we monitor their progress carefully using their records and any new X-rays, addressing concerns or delays as needed.
Cost of a Routine Pediatric Teeth Cleaning and Exam in Orillia
Much like dental visits for adults, regular check-ups for kids are an excellent way to catch and prevent dental issues early. Many insurance providers cover the majority of these routine appointments. For those without dental insurance, the cost typically ranges from $120 to $300 or more, particularly for initial visits or if it has been a long time since their last appointment.
When calculating the cost of treatment, several key factors are considered:
- The current state of your child’s oral health.
- Whether new X-rays are necessary.
- Additional treatments, such as fluoride applications or sealants for new adult teeth.
- The time required to address your child’s specific dental needs.
- The tools and materials needed for their care.
It’s important to note that providing an exact estimate over the phone isn’t possible. However, we’re happy to offer a detailed, personalised quote upon request. Regular dental visits are essential for monitoring your child’s oral development and catching issues early, helping to avoid more serious and costly problems later on.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, we suggest children visit the dentist for a cleaning and checkup every six months, just like adults. However, some individuals may come every three months if recommended. We advise against waiting longer than a year between appointments.
It’s important not to delay. If you’re concerned about your child’s oral health, book an appointment as soon as possible to address any issues early while they are still manageable.
Children may not always communicate discomfort, as they often don’t know what’s normal. Signs of dental pain can include:
- Frequently touching or holding their face or teeth.
- Acting defensive or hesitant to let anyone near their mouth.
- Redness, swelling, or changes in the gums, cheeks, or teeth.
- Running a fever associated with a toothache.
- Avoiding hot, cold, or hard foods and sticking to softer options.
- Chewing on only one side of their mouth.
- Increased irritability or a noticeably downcast mood.
Most cleanings are completed within 30 minutes to an hour. Appointments may take longer for children who are particularly curious or need extra reassurance to feel comfortable.
Start dental care as soon as your child’s teeth appear, using age-appropriate toothpaste and brushes. Teach them about proper oral hygiene and encourage them to brush twice daily. Fluoride treatments, available at the dentist, are beneficial, as are fluoridated water and products at home. Limit sugary or acidic foods and drinks, especially before bedtime. Be a positive role model by maintaining your own brushing and flossing routine.
Children should wait at least 30 minutes before consuming food or drinks after a fluoride treatment. This allows the fluoride to fully absorb and strengthen their teeth without being disrupted.
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