Extra gentle care for their gums and teeth
Children should visit the dentist as regularly as adults, with routine cleanings and exams being essential for maintaining their oral health and supporting proper development. Professional cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, while also helping to ensure their adult teeth come in correctly. A kid-friendly hygienist can reach areas that brushing and flossing at home may miss. After cleaning, the hygienist and dentist will assess their oral health, track baby teeth and new adult teeth, and provide personalized tips for at-home care.
- Keep baby teeth and new adult teeth as healthy and strong as possible.
- Prevent gum disease and support overall oral health.
- Monitor progress and milestones through various stages of growth.
- Establish a positive relationship with the dentist.
- Empower kids to take charge of their oral hygiene at home.
- Build good habits that last a lifetime.
Routine pediatric teeth cleanings and exams help:
What happens during children’s teeth cleaning?
Before the check-up, we review your child’s chart and history to identify any problem areas or patterns of concern. We may take X-rays if needed or discuss fluoride treatments or sealants for their new adult teeth. Our team communicates with your child in a kid-friendly way to ensure they feel comfortable, encouraging them to share how they feel about their teeth and any questions they may have.
Gum health
Gums play a crucial role in supporting your child’s teeth and shaping their smile. Good gum health is vital as permanent teeth come in, and children are just as prone to inflammatory gum diseases as adults. We carefully examine the soft tissues in their mouth and provide age-appropriate tips for flossing and maintaining healthy gums at home.
Plaque & tartar removal
Plaque is a sticky film that begins forming on teeth as soon as they appear. If not removed regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to tooth decay, especially between teeth and along the gumline. A hygienist has the tools and expertise to gently remove plaque and tartar from these tricky spots. After cleaning, we may suggest a fluoride treatment to help strengthen their enamel.
Watching for milestones
The dentist will review your child’s chart and any new X-rays to identify problem areas, patterns, or new developments. Children typically get their first teeth between 6 months and 6 years, gradually losing baby teeth as permanent teeth come in through their teens (and even later for wisdom teeth). Every child’s progress is unique, and the dentist will monitor their development and address any concerns or delays they may observe.
Cost of a routine pediatric teeth cleaning and exam in Grand Rapids
Routine checkups for kids, much like those for adults, are a great way to prevent dental problems, which is why most insurance companies cover them almost entirely on a regular basis. With standard insurance, you might pay as little as $0 to $50 (or more), with coverage typically provided every six months. For those without insurance, expect costs to range from $120 to $300 or more, especially for a first-time or long-overdue appointment.
- Their current oral health
- The need for new X-rays
- Fluoride treatments or sealants for new adult teeth
- The time required by the dental team to address their specific needs
- The equipment and supplies necessary for their care
When determining the actual cost of a child’s treatment, several factors are considered:
Keep in mind that we can’t provide precise estimates over the phone. However, we’re happy to offer a personalized estimate or an itemized quote upon request. Regular pediatric dental care is crucial for tracking the changes in your child’s developing mouth, which can help avoid expensive and uncomfortable dental problems in the future.
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
We generally recommend scheduling a cleaning and checkup for your child every 6 months, similar to adults, unless otherwise advised by the dentist. Some families opt for visits every 3 months, but it’s important not to wait more than a year between appointments.
Don’t hesitate. If you’re concerned about your child’s teeth or oral health, it’s wise to book an appointment as soon as possible. Early intervention can help us address any issues while they’re still manageable.
Young children often don’t know how to express dental discomfort, and some may try to cope without mentioning it. Watch for these signs that your child may be in pain or experiencing sensitivity:
- Frequently touching or cupping their face or mouth.
- Acting defensive or fearful when others approach their face or mouth.
- Swelling, redness, or discoloration of the gums, cheeks, or teeth.
- Running a fever, which can sometimes accompany a toothache.
- Avoiding hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Steering clear of chewy or hard foods like raw vegetables or meat.
- Chewing only on one side of their mouth.
- Increased irritability or a generally glum mood.
These behaviors may indicate discomfort, so it’s best to reach out to a dentist if you notice them.
Most children’s teeth cleaning appointments last between 30 minutes to an hour. The time can extend if your child has many questions or needs extra reassurance and patience due to anxiety.
- Start cleaning your child’s teeth as soon as they appear, using child-friendly, age-appropriate toothpaste and brushes.
- Teach your child about their oral health and encourage them to brush their teeth twice a day.
- Fluoride treatments are highly beneficial for kids. Ask for fluoride treatments at the dentist and use fluoride products and drinking water at home.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks like juice and soda, as they contribute to tooth decay.
- Avoid sweet treats and snacks before bedtime.
- Set a good example by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing!
Your child should wait at least 30 minutes after a fluoride treatment before eating or drinking. This waiting period allows the fluoride to fully absorb and strengthen their teeth before being washed away by food or drinks.
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