Understanding Deep Cleanings for Kids and Adolescents: A Parent Guide
When it comes to maintaining your child's oral health, routine cleanings are essential. However, there are times when a more thorough cleaning is necessary to combat plaque buildup, tartar, and other potential dental issues. This is where deep cleanings come into play. But what exactly is a deep cleaning, and how does it differ between children and adolescents? Let’s dive into the details.
What is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure designed to clean the teeth more thoroughly than a standard cleaning. Unlike regular cleanings that focus on the visible surfaces of the teeth, deep cleanings go below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This process helps to prevent or treat gum disease, ensuring that the teeth and gums remain healthy.
Deep Cleaning for Young Children
In young children, deep cleanings are less common because their oral hygiene needs are usually met with routine cleanings and regular brushing at home. However, there are situations where a deep cleaning might be necessary, particularly if the child has:
Poor oral hygiene habits: If a child isn't brushing or flossing adequately, plaque and tartar can build up, leading to gum inflammation and the early stages of gum disease.
Genetic predisposition: Some children are more prone to plaque buildup due to genetics, making deep cleanings a preventive measure.
Orthodontic appliances: Braces or other orthodontic devices can make it difficult to clean teeth thoroughly, increasing the risk of plaque buildup.
The deep cleaning process for children is often less extensive than for adolescents or adults. The dentist will typically focus on areas where plaque and tartar have accumulated, ensuring that the teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned without causing unnecessary discomfort. Because children's teeth and gums are more sensitive, the procedure is often gentler, with an emphasis on education to help them improve their oral hygiene habits at home.
Deep Cleaning for Adolescents
As children grow into adolescence, their oral hygiene needs change. Hormonal changes during puberty can increase the risk of gum disease, making deep cleanings more common in this age group. Adolescents are also more likely to have developed bad habits over time, such as inconsistent brushing or poor dietary choices, which can contribute to plaque buildup.
A deep cleaning for an adolescent typically involves:
Thorough scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline.
Root planing: Smoothing the roots of the teeth to prevent further buildup and help the gums reattach to the teeth.
Focus on problem areas: Adolescents are more likely to have localized areas of concern, such as molars or areas around braces, where plaque tends to accumulate.
Because adolescents' teeth and gums are more developed, the deep cleaning process can be more intensive. They may also require additional treatments, such as fluoride applications or sealants, to protect their teeth after the cleaning.
How to Prevent the Need for Deep Cleanings
While deep cleanings are an effective way to treat and prevent gum disease, the best approach is always prevention. Here are some tips to help your child or adolescent maintain good oral health:
Brush and floss regularly: Encourage your child to brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.
Regular dental visits: Schedule routine check-ups and cleanings every six months to catch any potential issues early.
Healthy diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can contribute to plaque buildup.
Education and habits: Teach your child the importance of good oral hygiene and help them develop healthy habits from a young age.
By following these steps, you can help your child or adolescent avoid the need for deep cleanings and maintain a healthy smile for life.
Conclusion
Deep cleanings are an important part of dental care for both children and adolescents, though the need and approach can vary based on age and individual circumstances. As a pediatric dentist, my goal is to ensure that your child’s teeth are not only clean but also healthy and strong. By understanding the differences between routine cleanings and deep cleanings, and by taking preventive measures, you can help your child maintain excellent oral health well into adulthood.
Kids Dental Spot is a dental office focused providing services to pediatric patients in Anaheim, California serving kids, children, infants and adolescents in the heart of Orange County serving nearby neighborhoods, such as: Fullerton, Brea, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Placentia, and Orange.
Written and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Atiya Bahmanyar, DDS (Board Certified - Doctorate of Dental Surgery)
