
Extra Gentle Care for Their Gums and Teeth
Just like adults, children should have regular dental checkups. Professional cleanings and exams are essential in maintaining their oral health and supporting proper development. Removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and persistent bad breath, while also ensuring that adult teeth emerge correctly. A child-friendly hygienist can clean hard-to-reach areas that daily brushing and flossing may miss.
Following a thorough cleaning, the dentist and hygienist take the opportunity to assess overall oral health, check for any concerns, and monitor the transition from baby teeth to permanent ones. Parents receive guidance on what to look out for and personalised tips to improve their child’s oral care at home.
Routine pediatric cleanings and exams help:
- Maintain the health and strength of baby and permanent teeth.
- Prevent gum disease and promote overall oral wellness.
- Track dental development and changes over time.
- Build a trusting relationship with the dentist.
- Encourage children to take responsibility for their own oral hygiene.
- Instill lifelong habits for maintaining a healthy smile.
What Happens During Children’s Teeth Cleaning?
To better understand your child’s oral health, we check their dental history for any concerns or patterns that may need attention. If required, X-rays will be taken, and fluoride treatments or sealants for new adult teeth may be recommended. We create a welcoming environment by using friendly language, asking about their experience with their teeth, and encouraging any questions they may have.
Gum Health
Healthy gums are essential for strong teeth and a confident smile. As permanent teeth begin to emerge, it’s important to keep gums in good condition. Since children can also develop gum inflammation, we carefully examine the soft tissues and offer age-appropriate advice on flossing and oral care.
Plaque & Tartar Removal
A sticky layer of plaque forms on teeth throughout the day, and if not removed, it hardens into tartar, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Certain areas—especially along the gumline and between teeth—can be difficult to clean with daily brushing. A hygienist gently removes plaque and tartar buildup using specialised tools. Afterward, we may suggest a fluoride treatment to further strengthen their teeth.
Monitoring Growth & Milestones
Tracking your child’s dental development allows us to identify potential concerns early. Baby teeth usually appear between 6 months and 6 years, with adult teeth gradually replacing them throughout adolescence. Since every child’s oral development is different, we assess their progress, watch for any delays, and provide guidance on the next steps for a healthy smile.
Cost of a Routine Pediatric Teeth Cleaning and Exam in Kanata
Regular dental checkups for children, much like those for adults, play a crucial role in preventing oral health issues. Because of their importance, most insurance providers offer significant coverage for these visits. With a standard insurance plan, out-of-pocket costs can range from $0 to $50 or more, with coverage typically available every six months unless special circumstances apply. For families without dental insurance, the cost can vary between $120 and $300+, particularly for an initial visit or if it has been a long time since the last appointment.
How Is the Cost of Treatment Determined? Several factors influence the final cost of a child’s dental cleaning and exam, including:
- Their current oral health status.
- Whether X-rays are needed.
- Additional treatments such as fluoride applications or sealants for new adult teeth.
- The time required to properly address their specific dental needs.
- The tools, materials, and technology used during their visit.
Since every child’s dental needs are different, an exact cost cannot be provided over the phone. If you would like a personalised estimate, we are happy to provide a detailed quote upon request. Regular pediatric dental care is essential for monitoring growth and preventing painful or costly complications. Keeping up with routine checkups is the best way to support your child’s long-term oral health.
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
For optimal oral health, children should have professional cleanings and checkups every six months, similar to adults. In some cases, more frequent visits, such as every three months, may be recommended. It’s best not to wait longer than a year between appointments.
It’s important not to delay. If you notice any concerns about your child’s teeth or oral health, scheduling an appointment as soon as possible allows potential problems to be addressed early while they are still minor.
Since young children may not always express discomfort clearly, it’s important to watch for signs of pain, such as:
- Frequently touching or holding their face or mouth.
- Acting hesitant or fearful about others examining their teeth.
- Swelling, redness, or changes in the gums, cheeks, or teeth.
- Developing a fever, which can sometimes occur with a toothache.
- Avoiding very hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Steering clear of chewy or hard foods, like raw vegetables or meat.
- Chewing only on one side of the mouth.
- Displaying irritability or a sudden change in mood.
Appointments generally last between 30 minutes and an hour. However, for children who ask a lot of questions, need extra reassurance, or feel nervous, the visit may take a little longer.
- Begin brushing their teeth as soon as they appear using an age-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Teach them about oral hygiene and encourage them to brush twice daily.
- Fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel—ask your dentist about in-office fluoride applications and use fluoride-containing products at home.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as juice and soda, which contribute to tooth decay.
- Avoid sweet snacks before bedtime.
- Lead by example—show them the importance of brushing and flossing by maintaining your own routine.
To allow the fluoride to fully absorb and strengthen the enamel, it’s recommended to wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking. This ensures the treatment remains effective before being washed away.
