Many well-meaning parents and guardians assume that their child doesn’t need to see a dentist for routine checkups and cleanings until they have a full mouth of teeth. However, most experts recommend taking them for their first standard visit when their first tooth arrives, which is usually around their first birthday, to prevent cavities and gum disease.
But your child is not alone if they’re nervous about their next dental cleaning because they’re afraid it might hurt. Continue reading to learn more about what happens during pediatric dental appointments and how to help manage any associated discomfort to help set their mind at ease!
What Should I Expect From My Child’s Appointment?
Before your child’s dentist starts their examination, they will likely have you fill out standard forms to update their medical history. This includes information about any surgical procedures, medical diagnosis, prescriptions, medications, or supplements that they take regularly.
Then, their provider will visually inspect their teeth, gums, bite alignment, and any existing dental work to verify that everything’s in good shape. They will likely also want to take X-rays at least once annually to prevent problems from developing beneath the surface.
If they find any areas of concern, they will provide a treatment plan for your approval. Otherwise, the next step is to proceed with your child’s professional cleaning.
Will My Child’s Dental Cleaning Hurt?
This part of your kid’s appointment doesn’t usually hurt, but it’s possible to develop sensitivity. This can sometimes occur if your child has neglected their at-home dental hygiene routine, or if it’s their first dental visit. The more plaque and residue buildup, the more discomfort can occur when it is removed.
For example, if your child already has gum disease that requires a more in-depth cleaning, they are more likely to feel sore or swollen afterward. Many pediatric providers understand kids might feel nervous about this process and offer sedatives, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help them feel calm and comfortable throughout their procedure.
How Can I Address Associated Sensitivity?
Your child’s teeth and gums might feel somewhat tender after a professional cleaning, but thankfully, there are things you can do to help reduce irritation. For example, if they’re old enough to rinse their mouth, you can provide a glass of salt water to naturally soothe their sensitive tissues.
You can also provide them with an ice pack or cold compress to press on the sore side of their face for temporary numbing relief, and you might want to ensure they have a soft-bristled toothbrush at home to avoid aggravating their gums the next time they scrub their teeth. Finally, you might also try the recommended dosage of over-the-counter pain medications, such as children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
If you have additional questions about how to help your child prepare for or recover from their next dental appointment, you can learn more by contacting their pediatric dentist directly!
Meet the Author
Dr. Sheh Vahid is a board-certified pediatric dentist who is passionate about helping children build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. She earned her dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed a General Dentistry Residency with a focus on pediatrics at the University of Rochester Eastman Dental Center. Today, she offers a variety of services, including standard checkups and cleanings and nitrous oxide sedation, using advanced technology to meet the unique needs of still-developing smiles. You can request an appointment on the website or call the office at (678) 498-2878.