How Often Should a Toddler Have a Dental Cleaning?

Dental Cleaning Selma, CA

A dental cleaning is an essential part of general dentistry care for individuals of all ages, including toddlers. Many parents are under the impression that toddlers do not need a dental cleaning because their teeth will eventually fall out, but this is far from true.

Dental cleanings should be undergone on a regular basis, no matter the age. However, routine may vary depending on age. In particular, toddlers require a certain number of dental cleanings to ensure that their baby teeth develop properly, thus encouraging their adult teeth to be healthy. 

Dental cleanings for toddlers

Below is an overview of dental cleanings for toddlers, including how often they should be done. Parents who are not sure can review the following information to get a general idea of proper care.

How often are they needed?

Toddlers typically require a dental cleaning twice a year or every six months. However, some parents may be advised to take their toddlers to the general dentist as soon as a new tooth erupts. Additionally, parents who struggle with caring for their toddler's teeth at home can visit the general dentist for a professional dental cleaning and additional assistance on oral hygiene practices. As the toddler ages, it may not be necessary to undergo a dental cleaning every time a tooth erupts, though it is up to the parent's preference and the dentist's recommendation. 

What is involved?

During a dental cleaning for a toddler, parents can expect the general dentist to carefully clean any present teeth with a small toothbrush and a dot of kid-friendly toothpaste. Unlike adults, toddlers will undergo a dental cleaning with a hand-held toothbrush, as this ensures gentleness and accuracy for the tiny teeth. The toddler's mouth may then be rinsed with water to ensure that nothing gets left behind. Additionally, the general dentist will carefully examine the oral cavity to check for any abnormalities. 

The importance

It is essential for everyone to undergo a dental cleaning on a regular basis. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar, both of which can lead to cavities or gum disease. While oral-hygiene at home does help keep the teeth in good shape, it requires the help of a professional to completely get the job done. 

While routine dental cleanings are essential in everyone, they are especially important for toddlers. Toddlers typically have baby teeth growing in, which may not seem important, but they lay the foundation for the adult teeth, which means how healthy or unhealthy the baby teeth are will contribute to the health of the adult teeth. Having toddlers see a general dentist regularly helps ensure that their teeth remain clean and healthy. 

Learn more about dental cleanings

When looking for further information on how often toddlers should undergo a dental cleaning, it is best to consult directly with a general dentistry practice that sees toddlers and children. Reach out today to ask questions or to go over concerns. Additionally, an appointment can be scheduled to get the process started. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.selmasunshinedental.com or call Selma Sunshine Dental at (559) 257-4080 for an appointment in our Selma office. 

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Selma, CA.

Related Posts

When A Deep Teeth Cleaning Is Recommended For Periodontal Health

Going to the dental office regularly likely means that the teeth will be cleaned on a routine basis, however, this does not mean that a deep teeth cleaning will be done. A deep teeth cleaning is actually different than the routine one that is done at a check-up. Many patients initially believe that a deep…

How Often Should You Get A Teeth Cleaning?

Whether you are a person who loves to care for your teeth and gums or someone who has been neglectful due to various circumstances, routine teeth cleaning is essential to your oral health. This article will review everything you need to know about professional teeth cleanings, such as: Why they are necessary; What to expect;…

The Importance Of Seeing A Preventive Dentist Regularly

Seeing a preventive dentist is a vital part of your oral healthcare routine each year. However, many people skip this essential step because they do not want to spend time at a dental office. Fortunately, a preventive dentist provides many valuable services that can help your smile last a lifetime and stop future issues before…

How Preventive Dentistry Can Avoid A Serious Dental Issue

Practicing preventive dentistry strategies can help you avoid serious dental problems. It can support your personal goals in keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Prevention is always better than going through treatments for serious dental problems. If you want to know how preventive dentistry can avoid the development of a serious oral problem, here are…