Why Children Need Professional Cleanings
Even with excellent brushing and flossing at home, children's teeth accumulate plaque and tartar that only professional cleaning can remove. These regular visits also allow our Pickering pediatric dentists to monitor your child's dental development, catch cavities early, and reinforce good oral hygiene habits.
Children are still developing their fine motor skills, which means their brushing often misses spots. Professional cleanings reach areas that are difficult for small hands to clean effectively, particularly along the gum line and between teeth.
What to Expect During Your Child's Cleaning
Children's dental cleanings at Hi Five Kids Dental & Braces are tailored to each child's age, comfort level, and specific needs. For young children, we use a gentle approach with smaller instruments and take breaks as needed.
The cleaning process includes removing plaque and tartar buildup, polishing teeth to remove surface stains, flossing between all teeth, and applying fluoride varnish for added cavity protection.
Our hygienists explain each step in kid-friendly language, helping children understand what's happening and why.
Beyond the Cleaning
Every cleaning appointment includes a thorough examination by one of our board-certified pediatric dentists. We assess your child's teeth for signs of decay, evaluate their bite and jaw development, check the health of their gums, and discuss any concerns you've noticed at home.
We also use this time to review oral hygiene techniques with both you and your child. As children grow, their brushing technique needs to evolve, and we provide age-appropriate guidance at every visit.
Making Cleanings Positive Experiences
Our Pickering practice is designed specifically for children, which makes a real difference in how kids experience their cleanings. We use tell-show-do techniques, give children choices when possible, and celebrate their cooperation with positive reinforcement.
Children who have positive early experiences with dental cleanings develop healthier attitudes toward dental care as they grow. By making cleanings comfortable and even fun, we're setting your child up for a lifetime of good oral health habits.
Families throughout Durham Region, including Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough, bring their children to Hi Five Kids Dental & Braces for gentle, thorough dental cleanings. We recommend cleanings every six months for most children, though some may benefit from more frequent visits.
