
Gentle Dental Care for Children's Oral Health Needs
Just like adults, kids need regular check-ups to stay healthy. Routine cleanings help remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that brushing can miss—preventing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath while supporting proper development of adult teeth.
After cleaning, our kid-friendly team checks for potential issues, monitors baby tooth transitions, and tracks permanent tooth growth. We also provide tailored advice for at-home care.
Benefits of regular dental visits for children include:
- Keeping baby and adult teeth strong
- Preventing gum disease
- Tracking growth and development
- Building a positive relationship with the dentist
- Encouraging healthy habits for life
What Happens During Children’s Teeth Cleanings?
At each visit, we review your child’s dental history to spot any early signs of concern. Depending on their needs, we may take X-rays, discuss fluoride treatment, or recommend sealants for developing adult teeth. We always speak in a child-friendly way to make them feel comfortable and confident asking questions.
Gum Health
Healthy gums are essential, especially as permanent teeth begin to emerge. We check the soft tissues in your child’s mouth and provide simple tips for flossing and gum care to help prevent early signs of gum disease.
Plaque & Tartar Removal
Plaque builds up quickly on children’s teeth and can harden into tartar, which contributes to decay. Our hygienists gently remove buildup from hard-to-reach areas and may apply fluoride to help protect their enamel.
Monitoring Developmental Milestones
We track your child’s dental growth from baby teeth to adult teeth, watching for any issues or delays. With regular check-ups, we ensure their dental development stays on track—supporting a healthy smile at every stage.
The Cost of Pediatric Teeth Cleanings and Exams in Trenton
Insurance Coverage for Kids’ Dental Checkups
Most dental insurance plans cover the full or majority of costs for children’s routine cleanings and exams—often leaving families with little to no out-of-pocket expense (typically $0 to $50). Preventive visits are usually recommended every six months, with some exceptions depending on your child’s needs.
Costs Without Insurance
If your family doesn’t have dental insurance, we offer affordable options to ensure your child receives essential care. The cost of a pediatric cleaning and exam typically ranges from $120 to $300+, especially for first-time or long-overdue visits.
Several factors can affect pricing:
- Your child’s oral health – existing issues may require more attention.
- X-rays – may be needed to assess developing teeth.
- Additional treatments – fluoride or sealants might be recommended.
- Time required – longer appointments for complex needs.
- Specialized equipment – used to ensure thorough care.
While it’s difficult to give an exact price over the phone, we’re happy to provide a personalized estimate when you contact our office.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your child should wait at least 30 minutes after a fluoride treatment before eating or drinking. This allows the fluoride to fully absorb and strengthen their teeth.
Start brushing as soon as their first tooth appears. Use age-appropriate toothpaste and brushes, and encourage brushing twice a day. Limit sugary and acidic foods, and ask your dentist about fluoride treatments and sealants. Set a great example by brushing and flossing with them.
A typical visit lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your child’s needs. Appointments may take longer if your child is anxious or has many questions.
Watch for signs like:
- Holding or rubbing their face
- Avoiding hot/cold or hard foods
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Sudden irritability or sadness
- Chewing only on one side
These may suggest discomfort or a toothache. Schedule a visit if you notice any of these.
Don’t wait—contact your dentist if anything seems off. Early care prevents bigger issues later on.
Most children benefit from checkups every 6 months, though some may need more frequent visits. Avoid going longer than a year between appointments.
