Should My Child Get a Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Wondering whether your child needs a deep teeth cleaning procedure? Read on to learn about when this procedure is needed for children. The goal for children is to prevent gum disease from developing through regular cleanings and good oral hygiene. However, when a more severe case of gum disease develops, there are treatment options available, such as a deep teeth cleaning which can remove plaque and bacteria build-up beneath the gum line.

When a child may need a deep teeth cleaning appointment

A deep teeth cleaning can benefit children the same as it can benefit adults. Children that have developed gum disease may benefit from deep teeth cleanings to prevent the concern from worsening or lasting for an extended period of time. However, not all children require deep teeth cleanings, unlike a regular cleaning which should take place every six months.

When is a deep dental cleaning recommended for children?

Deep dental cleanings are recommended for children that have gum disease. Children that have healthy gums and teeth do not usually require deep teeth cleaning treatments. There may also be alternative gum disease treatment options available for children that only have a mild form of gum disease, known as gingivitis. However, since deep teeth cleaning is safe and effective, it is often the best treatment option for moderate to severe gum disease in children.

Regular vs. deep teeth cleaning: what is the difference?

A deep teeth cleaning cleans underneath the gum line; a regular cleaning only cleans the surface of teeth and along the gum line. The goal of a deep cleaning procedure is to remove plaque and tartar build-up in the pockets of teeth to help prevent gum disease from damaging the gums and underlying jawbone. The purpose of a regular cleaning procedure, on the other hand, is to keep teeth clean and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease, rather than treat gum disease after it has developed.

Is it safe for my child to get deep teeth cleaning treatments?

Deep teeth cleaning procedures are a safe and minimally invasive procedure for children. The dental professional uses safe dental instruments and either no sedative or at most a very mild sedative is used. There are also no harmful chemicals used during the procedure, and the risks of any damage to teeth and gums are very low.

What can I expect after deep teeth cleaning appointments?

Children may experience some slight discomfort during the deep dental cleaning. There may be some minor soreness for several hours after the procedure, as well. However, most children recover within 24 hours and do not have any notable side effects or complications from the procedure. It is important for parents to help their child follow any aftercare instructions the dentist provides.

Ready to schedule an appointment for your child's teeth cleaning?

If your child has symptoms of gum disease or has gone more than six months since their last visit, then call our dental team today to schedule a time to come into the office. We can assess the status of your child’s periodontal and teeth health and determine if a regular cleaning or a deep dental cleaning is most appropriate.

Request an appointment here: https://somervilledentist.com or call Assembly Dental at (857) 300-5779 for an appointment in our Somerville office.

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