DENTAL CLEANINGS
DENTAL CLEANINGS OR PROPHYLAXIS are an essential component of preventive dentistry. The goal is to remove microbial plaque that can cause gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and cavities.
Only our professional staff can determine how often this should be done. Some patients accumulate tartar more quickly than others.
PROPHYLAXIS AND WHY IT WILL HELP YOUR CHILD
If you regularly visit a pediatric dentist, it is likely that they will perform a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year. This is to remove hardened plaque or tartar from the teeth, which helps maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Prophylaxis reduces the risk of gum disease and cavities, and your child needs periodic professional dental cleanings for precisely the same reasons as you. During this appointment, we can identify any areas that your child may be missing when brushing or flossing.
This allows the dentist to provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help your child brush their teeth as effectively as possible. If they need guidance on how to brush and floss, you can be assured that it will be done in an entertaining and enjoyable manner.
TREATMENTS TO PROTECT YOUR TEETH
Has your child's first tooth erupted in the last 6 months, or has it been 6 months or more since the last dental check-up? If the answer is yes, it's time to schedule the first dental appointment.
Some may think that caring for baby teeth is not as necessary since they will fall out anyway. However, neglecting the health of baby teeth can lead to cavities, diseases, infections, pain, and premature loss of teeth, which can, in turn, cause spacing problems with permanent teeth as they begin to emerge.
A dental cleaning will include an examination of the teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy and free from diseases or infections. Each tooth will be carefully assessed and cleaned, and your child will receive interactive and fun instructions on how to brush their teeth, use dental floss, and maintain a daily oral hygiene routine.
If X-rays are indicated, images of your child's teeth will be taken quickly and safely using our digital imaging system. This process creates an image file that our specialists can easily review if your child ever needs additional care.
It's a good practice to schedule your child's next 6-month checkup before leaving our office. By attending dental check-ups twice a year, you ensure a healthy smile.
Our specialists believe in making children's dental care an educational and enjoyable experience. If your child is nervous about visiting our office for the first time, call us to schedule a tour of our office before the appointment date.