Lets talk - kids cleanings

Helping kids feel comfortable during cleanings is key to building positive, lasting relationships with dentists and ensuring lifelong oral health. It's essential to talk to your children about the dentist in a positive and encouraging way. Your dental office should prioritize making every visit as comfortable and positive as possible. When it comes to your child, it’s important to respect their comfort levels and not push them beyond what they can handle. If the hygienist, dentist, or assistant recommends pausing the appointment, it’s the best decision to prevent your child from feeling overwhelmed and developing a fear of the dental office.  Another key aspect of ensuring a positive dental experience for kids is introducing proper oral hygiene at home from an early age. Teaching children the importance of brushing and flossing in a fun and engaging way helps them view dental care as a normal and enjoyable part of their daily routine. Parents can use colorful toothbrushes, flavored toothpaste, or even dental-themed storybooks to encourage interest and excitement. When kids feel empowered to take care of their teeth, they are more likely to approach dental visits with confidence and a sense of familiarity.

As an assistant, my approach to children's cleanings might differ from that of a hygienist. When I meet a child for the first time, especially if it’s their very first dental visit, I prioritize making them feel at ease. The first step is to show them everything I’ll be using and doing. Fear often comes from the unknown, so by explaining and demonstrating in a way they can understand, I help create a sense of comfort and trust for the child. If a child feels nervous and refuses to let me clean their teeth, I take the next step by handing them a toothbrush and demonstrating how to brush properly. While they practice, I guide them with improved techniques. During this process, I also take the opportunity to gently examine their teeth for any visible decay or areas of concern. Rest assured, everything is carefully documented in their chart. During their next visit, we’ll aim to accomplish even more.  Another key aspect of my approach is educating parents during the visit. Often, parents have questions or concerns about their child’s oral health, from teething to proper brushing habits or even dietary impacts on dental health. I take the time to address these questions and provide practical tips they can implement at home. By empowering parents with this knowledge, they can support their child’s oral hygiene journey, ensuring good habits are formed early and maintained over time. After all, dental care is a team effort, and parents play an essential role in reinforcing what we teach during the visit.