Visiting the dentist every six months for dental cleaning is one of the easiest ways to preserve your child’s oral health. At NJ Kids Pediatric Group, family dentist Simar Nagyal, DMD, regularly provides dental cleanings to children of all ages. To make an appointment for your child at the practice in Union, New Jersey, call the office or book online today.
Dental cleaning is a type of preventive dentistry. It involves your child’s NJ Kids Pediatric Group provider removing plaque from between their teeth and beneath their gums. By reducing the buildup of plaque and tartar, it’s possible to reduce the risk of potentially serious issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
At NJ Kids Pediatric Group, dental cleaning involves a series of steps, including:
Before cleaning your child’s teeth, their NJ Kids Pediatric Group provider conducts an oral exam. During the exam, they assess the health of your child’s teeth, gums, and tongue. If your child’s provider notices anything out of the ordinary, they can order additional tests, like X-rays or an oral biopsy.
Following a thorough oral exam, your child’s dentist carefully removes plaque and tartar from their teeth. Your child may hear some scraping during this part of the exam. If they experience dental anxiety or have difficulty sitting still, NJ Kids Pediatric Group offers oral sedation.
After the dental cleaning, your child’s provider brushes their teeth with a special toothpaste. The toothpaste smells and tastes like what you’d buy at the store, but it has microscopic abrasives in it that gently scrub and polish your child’s teeth.
Next, your child’s provider flosses their teeth. Flossing removes excess plaque, tartar, or food particles trapped between your child’s teeth or beneath their gums. It also massages their gums, reducing the risk of gum disease.
At the end of a dental cleaning, your child’s NJ Kids Pediatric Group provider might recommend sealants. Sealants are thin plastic coverings applied to your child’s teeth. They prevent oral bacteria from damaging your child’s tooth enamel, lowering the risk of cavities.
NJ Kids Pediatric Group recommends scheduling your child’s first dental cleaning when they’re a toddler. By visiting the dentist at an early age, it’s easier to catch potentially serious issues when they respond best to treatment. In addition, it presents an opportunity for your child to learn about the importance of optimal oral health.
To learn more about the benefits of a dental cleaning, make an appointment for your child at NJ Kids Pediatric Group. Use the online booking feature or call the office today.
