How do pediatric dentists clean teeth?
Even if your children brush and floss daily, it’s still important for them to see a pediatric dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim provide gentle, thorough cleanings designed to remove plaque and tartar that can’t be reached at home. Using specialized instruments, they carefully scale away buildup and polish the enamel so your child leaves with a healthier, brighter smile.
After each visit, you can ask Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim for personalized tips to help care for your child’s teeth at home. These cleanings also give our board-certified pediatric dentists the opportunity to identify early signs of potential issues and provide proactive treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Pediatric Dental Cleanings?
It’s never too early to lay the foundation for lifelong oral health. With routine visits to Dr. Kong and Dr. Kim at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, your child can benefit from:
Prevention of cavities through plaque and tartar removal
Early detection of developing dental problems
Encouragement of good oral habits from a young age
Reduced risk of dental anxiety later in life
What Age Should Kids Get Teeth Cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends that babies see a dentist before their first birthday, and Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim typically suggest cleanings twice per year after that initial visit. These appointments remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and stains while giving your child positive experiences at the dentist that make future visits easier.
What Does a Pediatric Dental Cleaning Involve?
A pediatric dental cleaning at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry is a simple but effective procedure. Plaque and tartar are removed with professional instruments that clean the teeth without damaging the enamel. Every tooth is carefully scaled, polished to remove surface stains, and then protected with fluoride treatment to help prevent cavities.
How Long Does a Pediatric Dental Cleaning Take?
Most cleanings with Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim take less than 30 minutes, and if additional preventive services like sealants are needed, the appointment may take a little longer. These quick, comfortable visits are an essential part of keeping kids’ smiles healthy while giving the doctors the chance to address any concerns early.
Should I Help My Child Brush Their Teeth?
At home, parents should help children brush and floss until they are old enough to do it effectively on their own. Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim often recommend specific products and demonstrate techniques to make daily care easier and more effective. For children with braces, frequent cavities, or other oral health concerns, they may recommend cleanings more often than twice a year.
Does Insurance Cover Pediatric Teeth Cleanings?
Professional cleanings are considered preventive care and are typically covered by insurance. Our office team will confirm your coverage, explain any out-of-pocket costs, and discuss flexible payment options if needed.
What Should My Child Expect After a Cleaning?
After each cleaning, Dr. Kong and Dr. Kim may suggest personalized at-home routines to maintain oral health between visits. These professional visits keep smiles bright, healthy, and cavity-free while teaching families how to care for their children’s teeth in between appointments.
Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy
At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim are committed to providing a positive, family-focused dental experience. Twice-yearly cleanings help keep your child’s teeth strong and cavity-free while laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Schedule your child’s next cleaning today with Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim and help them enjoy the benefits of expert pediatric dental care.
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.