How Do Pediatric Dentists Clean Teeth?
Even if your children brush and floss daily, regular visits to a pediatric dentist in Lawrenceville GA are essential. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend professional cleanings twice a year as part of our comprehensive pediatric dental services.
Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim provide gentle yet thorough cleanings that remove plaque and tartar in areas brushing and flossing can’t reach. Using specialized instruments, they carefully scale away buildup and polish your child’s enamel, leaving their smile brighter and healthier.
After each visit, you can also ask Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim for personalized at-home care tips tailored to your child’s needs. These preventive cleanings not only support long-term oral health but also allow our board-certified pediatric dentists to detect early signs of potential issues and recommend proactive treatments before they become bigger problems.
What Are the Benefits of Pediatric Dental Cleanings?
It’s never too early to build the foundation for lifelong oral health. With routine visits to Dr. Kong and Dr. Kim at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, your child benefits from trusted pediatric dental services provided by an experienced pediatric dentist in Lawrenceville GA.
Cavity prevention through plaque and tartar removal
Early detection of potential dental health issues
Encouragement of strong oral care habits early
Reduced risk of future dental anxiety
Stronger gum health and lasting oral protection
Guidance for parents on proper home care
Monitoring jaw growth and tooth alignment needs
Personalized treatment plans for each unique smile
What Age Should Kids Get Teeth Cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends that babies see a dentist before their first birthday. After that first visit, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim typically suggest a pediatric dental cleaning twice per year. These visits remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and stains while also creating positive experiences that make future appointments easier for children.
What Does a Pediatric Dental Cleaning Involve?
A pediatric dental cleaning at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry is simple, gentle, and highly effective. Using specialized tools, plaque and tartar are carefully removed without harming the enamel. Each tooth is scaled, polished to eliminate surface stains, and finished with a fluoride treatment for stronger cavity protection.
How Long Does a Pediatric Dental Cleaning Take?
Most cleanings with Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim take less than 30 minutes. If preventive services such as sealants are recommended, the visit may take a little longer. These quick, comfortable appointments help keep your child’s smile healthy while giving our certified pediatric dentists the chance to catch concerns early.
Should I Help My Child Brush Their Teeth?
Parents should assist children with brushing and flossing until they can manage independently. Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim often recommend specific products and show families how to improve daily care routines. For kids with braces, frequent cavities, or other concerns, our certified pediatric dentists may recommend cleanings more often than twice a year.
Does Insurance Cover Pediatric Teeth Cleanings?
Professional cleanings are considered preventive care and are usually covered by insurance. Our office team will confirm your child’s coverage, review any out-of-pocket costs, and provide flexible payment options when needed.
What Should My Child Expect After a Cleaning?
After every pediatric dental cleaning, Dr. Kong and Dr. Kim may recommend personalized at-home care routines to keep your child’s teeth strong between visits. These professional services ensure bright, healthy, cavity-free smiles while also educating families on effective oral care.
Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy
At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim provide family-focused care led by certified pediatric dentists. Twice-yearly cleanings protect your child’s teeth, prevent cavities, and support lifelong oral health. Schedule your child’s next pediatric dental cleaning today and let them enjoy the benefits of expert care in a friendly environment.
Pediatric Dental Cleanings FAQ
Just like adults, the ADA (American Dental Association) recommends that children have their teeth cleaned every six months, beginning after their first tooth appears, typically around the age of one year.
No, most people and even children don’t find a dental cleaning painful or experience any discomfort. If there is any tooth sensitivity after the cleaning, it typically goes away quickly.
No, pediatric dental cleanings do not damage the teeth. The enamel of teeth is very strong and resilient, and a dental cleaning doesn’t harm it. During a cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed, which actually helps to protect and maintain the health of the teeth. Regular dental cleanings are essential for preventing cavities and other dental issues, ensuring your child’s teeth remain strong and healthy.
In most cases, yes, as part of a comprehensive dental cleaning, your child’s teeth will be flossed during their in-office visit. Flossing is an essential step in maintaining good oral hygiene, as it helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline. Our pediatric dental professionals will use specialized tools and techniques to make the experience comfortable for your child. Regular flossing during dental cleanings promotes healthy gums and reduces the risk of cavities, contributing to your child’s overall oral health.
Dental anxiety is common in children, but there are several strategies to help alleviate their fears. It’s particularly helpful for parents to maintain a positive and reassuring attitude about dental visits. You can also:
- Choose a pediatric dentist experienced in working with children
- Schedule a “meet and greet” visit to familiarize your child with the dental office
- Use positive language and avoid negative dental-related terms
- Offer a small reward or incentive for a successful visit
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing with your child
- Read age-appropriate books or watch videos about dental visits to reduce uncertainty
Our caring team understands the unique anxiety that many children have about visiting the dentist, and we are committed to ensuring each child has a positive, comfortable, and enjoyable experience.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by age one or within six months after the first tooth erupts. Regular cleanings should begin as advised by our staff, typically every six months.