Going to the dentist isn’t always high on a kid’s list of favorite things, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you know what to expect ahead of time, it’s easier to walk in with confidence, both for you and your child to get the most out of your dental care.
Dr. Alvaro Salles, pediatric dentists Dr. Adriana Salles and Dr. Saffana, and the rest of the team at At Topsmiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics focus on making each visit simple, supportive, and stress-free. Our office is located near St. Anne’s Road and Portage Avenue, so it’s convenient for families in the area who want expert care without the added hassle.
When Should a Child Have Their First Cleaning
Every kid’s timeline looks a little different, but as soon as teeth are in, it’s time to check in with a pediatric dentist. That might feel early, but baby teeth matter more than most people think. They hold space for adult teeth and help with everything from speech to chewing.
Cleanings usually begin around age one, or shortly after the first tooth appears. Starting early helps your child get comfortable in the dental chair and lets the dentist catch small issues before they grow into bigger ones.
If it’s been a while since your child’s last visit, or you’re wondering if it’s too soon, you can always give us a call, and we’ll walk you through what makes sense based on their age and dental development.
What Happens During a Kids’ Dental Cleaning
This isn’t like your standard adult cleaning with X-rays, heavy scraping, and lectures. Kids’ cleanings are a lot gentler and tailored to their comfort level.
Step 1: Plaque and Tartar Removal
A hygienist will use a small tool to remove any plaque or tartar on the teeth carefully. Even if your child is great about brushing, it’s common for buildup to sneak into tight spaces, especially around the molars.
Step 2: Tooth Polishing
Next comes the polish. Kids usually get to pick the flavor of their polishing paste, think bubblegum, strawberry, or mint. A soft rotating brush gently buffs each tooth, leaving them smooth and shiny.
Step 3: Dental Exam
Once their teeth are clean, one of our pediatric dentists will take a close look at each tooth, check their bite, and examine the gums. They’re looking for early signs of decay, misalignment, or anything else that may need attention.
Step 4: Fluoride Treatment
To wrap up the visit, we apply a fluoride treatment to help strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. It takes just a minute and helps keep teeth resilient between cleanings.
These steps are designed to be quick, thorough, and stress-free. Most kids are surprised by how easy the whole thing is.
How to Help Your Child Feel Comfortable
Some kids walk into the dentist like it’s no big deal. Others need a little more reassurance. Here are a few ways to help your child feel prepared without overwhelming them.
Keep things casual
Talk about the dentist like it’s a normal part of staying healthy, just like going to the doctor or taking a bath.
Avoid over-explaining
You don’t need to describe every tool or step in detail. The simpler your explanation, the less room there is for worry.
Practice at home
Play pretend with a toothbrush and mirror. Let them “clean” a stuffed animal’s teeth or have you do theirs, just so the motions feel familiar.
Stay close
Depending on the child’s age and the situation, you might be able to sit nearby or hold their hand. That physical closeness can go a long way in making them feel safe.
A calm parent helps create a calm experience. If you seem confident, they’ll pick up on that energy.
Braces Might Not Be On Your Radar Yet, But Here’s Why They Come Up
It’s not uncommon for orthodontic questions to pop up during cleanings, especially if your child is older or if their bite is showing early signs of crowding or misalignment.
Dr. Alvaro Salles, our orthodontist at Topsmiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, works closely with our pediatric team to flag any concerns early. That doesn’t mean your child needs braces right away, but it’s good to keep an eye on development.
We’ll walk you through all the options if it becomes relevant, whether that’s traditional metal braces or Invisalign, depending on your child’s age and needs. Some kids benefit from early intervention, while others wait until their teens. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Cleanings Matter More Than You Think
It’s easy to assume baby teeth don’t need much attention because they fall out eventually, right? However, that’s actually why cleanings are so important. Decay in baby teeth can lead to infections, pain, or even problems with adult teeth later on. In some cases, untreated issues in baby teeth can affect how adult teeth come in or cause spacing problems that require early orthodontic care.
Routine cleanings are about more than polishing teeth. They give us a chance to spot any early signs of trouble, reinforce good hygiene habits, and keep things on track without stress. They also allow parents to ask questions and stay ahead of anything that might need attention down the road.
When cleanings are consistent, kids usually feel more relaxed over time. They learn to expect the process, trust the people in the room, and feel a sense of ownership over their oral health. That confidence matters.
Keep Your Dental Visits Simple and Stress-Free
Dental cleanings don’t have to turn into a big ordeal. When your child has a team they trust and a space where they feel comfortable, it makes the entire experience smoother from start to finish. That’s what families find with Dr. Alvaro Salles, Dr. Adriana Salles, and Dr. Saffana at Topsmiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.
The office is located near St. Anne’s Road and Portage Avenue, so it’s easy to swing by without juggling a long drive or rearranging your whole day. If your child is due for a cleaning or you just want to connect with a pediatric dental team that takes the time to do things right, we’re here when you’re ready. Schedule a free consultation to get started with our friendly and caring team.