Maintaining optimal dental health is crucial during childhood, as these formative years set the foundation for strong and healthy permanent teeth. Dr Pratibha, Chief Pediatric and Preventive Dentist at Pandit Clinic and a Consultant Pediatric Dentist at KEM Hospital in Pune, emphasises the importance of regular dental cleanings, including scaling, polishing, and fluoride application, to prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and periodontal diseases.
Understanding Dental Cleaning for Children
What is Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleaning for children encompasses several procedures designed to maintain and enhance oral health. Here are the key components:
- Scaling: This is the process of removing dental plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the tooth surfaces using specialised tools. Scaling is essential because plaque buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly.
- Polishing: After scaling, polishing smoothens the rough surfaces on teeth and removes surface stains. This is typically done using lightly abrasive polishing pastes and rubber polishing discs, which help in achieving a bright and clean smile.
- Fluoride Application: Fluoride treatments involve applying fluoride, a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Fluoride varnish, a common form of fluoride treatment, is applied directly to the teeth to provide a protective barrier.
These steps are essential in ensuring children maintain healthy teeth and prevent dental caries, which can lead to long-term dental health issues.
The Importance of Regular Cleanings
Regular dental screening is vital for children, starting as soon as the first primary teeth emerge, typically around six months of age. Dr Pratibha recommends routine cleanings every six months for several reasons:
- Removal of Plaque Buildup: Regular cleanings help eliminate plaque and tartar that can accumulate on tooth surfaces, preventing cavities and gum disease.
- Early Detection of Dental Issues: During cleanings, Dr Pratibha can identify potential problems such as carious lesions and gum disease, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
- Promotion of Healthy Habits: Regular visits to the dentist reinforce the importance of good dental care and hygiene practices, instilling lifelong habits in children.
- Jaw growth monitoring- Regular screening and monitoring gives a fair amount of idea of growth and development of jaws and can be instrumental in diagnosing and treatmnet of developing malocclusions like cross bites, crowding, proclined upper teeth, deep bite and narrow arches.
The Dental Cleaning Process
When you bring your child in for a dental cleaning, the appointment typically follows these steps:
- Initial Assessment: Dr Pratibha will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s mouth to identify any existing dental issues, such as cavities/gum problems, any broken restorations and alignment of teeth. We at Pandit Clinic boast of having the world-class technology of Q Scan– the first contactless plaque detection system in Pune.
- Scaling: Using ultrasonic scalers or hand instruments, the dentist carefully removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces. This step is crucial for preventing the development of cavities and gum disease.
- Polishing: After scaling, a rubber polishing pad is used along with polishing compounds to buff the teeth, removing any remaining stains and providing a smooth surface.
- Fluoride Varnish Application: Once the teeth are clean and polished, Dr Pratibha will apply fluoride varnish to the teeth. This protective coating helps remineralise enamel and significantly reduces the risk of cavities. Fluoride varnish treatments are especially effective for children, as their teeth are still developing.
- Reinforcement of habits- After the entire process, Dr Pratibha will reinforce the age-appropriate oral hygiene instructions to improve brushing habits. Our ‘brushy Crocodile’ helps us in the process of reinforcing hygiene instructions to all our little ones with fun.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is an essential component of maintaining dental health, especially for children. Here are the key benefits of fluoride treatments:
- Strengthens Tooth Enamel: Fluoride helps reinforce the structure of tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay and wear.
- Reduces Risk of Cavities: Studies have shown that fluoride treatments can significantly lower the chances of developing dental caries in children.
Supports Tooth Remineralisation: Fluoride plays a crucial role in repairing the early stages of tooth decay by promoting the remineralisation of enamel.
Bright Smiles, Strong Beginnings: Pediatric Preventive Dental Care
Preparing for Your Child’s Dental Cleaning
To make your child’s dental cleaning appointment as positive as possible, consider the following tips:
- Explain the Process: Before the appointment, talk to your child about what to expect during the dental cleaning in a calm and reassuring manner. This helps to alleviate any anxiety they may feel.
- Schedule Appropriately: Choose a time for the appointment when your child is well-rested and not hungry. A calm and relaxed child is more likely to have a positive experience.
- Practice Dental Hygiene at Home: Encourage daily brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and flossing. Teaching your child to take responsibility for their dental hygiene will help reinforce the importance of oral health.
Pediatric Dental Care Tips for Parents
Caring for your child’s dental health extends beyond the dentist’s office. Here are practical tips to promote good oral health:
- Encourage Regular Brushing: Teach your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day using a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Proper brushing technique should focus on all tooth surfaces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
- Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Reducing the intake of sugary foods and beverages can significantly lower the risk of tooth decay. Encourage healthier snack options, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
- Use Interdental Brushes: Introduce interdental brushes to help clean between teeth, especially if your child wears braces or has gaps between their teeth.
- Schedule Regular Dental Exams: Regular check-ups with Dr Pratibha allow for monitoring of oral health and timely intervention for any dental issues that may arise.
Special needs patients: If you are a proud parent of a child with Special needs, ask for our Special Sensory sheet for dental treatment at Pandit Clinic, Pune. We will be happy to run you through it, and it will be helpful for preparing our little patient with special needs for pre-appointment desensitisation.
Understanding Special Dental Needs
Dr Pratibha has extensive training in pediatric dental care, including specialised treatments for children with unique healthcare needs. Her expertise ensures that every child receives compassionate and effective care tailored to their individual requirements. This includes procedures performed under general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation when necessary, ensuring comfort and safety during treatment.
Regular dental cleanings, including scaling, polishing, and fluoride application, are vital for maintaining your child’s oral health. With the guidance of a trustworthy pediatric dentist like Dr Pratibha, you can help your child develop healthy teeth and positive dental habits. If you’re looking for the best pediatric dentist in Pune, consider scheduling an appointment for your child’s dental cleaning at Pandit Clinic today.
Virtual Video Consultations
100% SAFE AND SECURE CALLS WITH ENCRYPTION. YOUR PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY IS GUARANTEED.
Start here, by making an appointment for a virtual consultation with our expert Dr. Pratibha Kukreja Pandit (NEW PATIENTS ONLY).
Dr. Pratibha Kukreja Pandit is available for Virtual Video Consultations from Monday – Saturday between the hours of 11 am – 2pm and 4pm – 7pm.
If you are already our valued patient with questions or have an emergency please contact the clinic on +91 9822053446
Consult Dr. Pratibha Kukreja Pandit
(Pediatric Dentist)
Virtual Video Consultation Fees Rs. 500
The Consultation Fees Must Be Paid Online by GOOGLE PAY BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT. See The Instructions On Appointment Confirmations
Your virtual video consultation includes:
- Discussion of problems that your child is facing like tooth pain, swelling or any other emergencies
- Dr. Pratibha will recommend a course of treatment or medications for your child.
Dr. Pratibha Kukreja Pandit
BDS, MDSMeet the Doctor
Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry Specialist
Dr. Pratibha is the Chief Dentist at Pandit Clinic. She is also a Consultant Pediatric Dentist at Kotbagi Hospital and KEM Hospital, Pune.
Dr. Pratibha has trained at the prestigious Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, in advanced areas including Pediatric dental treatment under General Anesthesia and Intravenous sedation, Dental Rehabilitation of children with special health care needs, and Nasoalveolar molding and dental rehabilitation of cleft lip and cleft palate.
She’s the lifetime member of Student Clinician Association, American Dental Association (SCADA), USA.
Professional Affiliations and Skills
- Trained in Pediatric dental treatment under General Anesthesia and Intravenous sedation at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
- Trained in Dental Rehabilitation of children with special health care needs at CGMH, Taiwan
- Trained in Nasoalveolar molding and dental rehabilitation of Cleft lip and Cleft Palate at craniofacial centre, CGMH, Taiwan
- Awarded Lifetime membership, SCADA (Student Clinician Association, American Dental Association), USA.
You Might Be Interested In
How To Take Care Of Baby Teeth? | Expert Insights by Dr. Pratibha
Tiny teeth peeking through your little one’s lips are more than just adorable; they’re the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles. But how do
Dental X-Rays: A Parent’s Essential Guide for Kids
Hey there, parents! We’ve all been there – the moment when your little one gives you a cheeky grin, revealing a set of tiny teeth
