Pediatric Dental Cleanings
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What Happens at Your Child’s Dental Cleaning?
A cleaning is an important part of a child’s routine visit, and it looks a little different than a grown-up’s appointment — just the way it should. Our team at Frontenac Pediatric Dentistry of St. Louis uses tools and techniques sized and shaped for little mouths, and works at a pace that keeps children relaxed. A gentle polish first removes surface stains from each tooth, and where harder tartar deposits have formed, the hygienist or dentist will use a scaler to carefully lift them away. The visit often finishes with a fluoride treatment to help strengthen enamel and keep cavities at bay. Throughout, every step is explained in kid-friendly terms so nothing feels like a surprise, and your child will even get to pick their own toothpaste, floss, and fluoride flavors from our patient menu.
How Often Should Kids Have Their Teeth Cleaned?
For most children, twice a year does the trick. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends regular cleanings and check-ups, and it gives the dental team a chance to spot small things before they become big ones.
Pediatric Dentist or Family Dentist: Which Is Right for My Child?
A pediatric dentist is a specialist in caring for children’s smiles, from infancy through the teenage years. After four years of dental school, pediatric dentists complete several years of additional training focused entirely on how children’s teeth, jaws, and behavior develop as they grow. This specialized knowledge means they know exactly what to look for at every stage, so your child is well cared for and any problems are caught early — often before they become bigger concerns. It also shapes how they approach each visit, from the way they talk with a child in the chair to how they plan and deliver treatment.
At Frontenac Pediatric Dentistry of St. Louis, everything is designed with kids and teens in mind. We use specially designed equipment that fits comfortably in little mouths, making care gentler and easier for young patients — so visits feel less like a chore and more like something your child looks forward to.
Why Families Choose Frontenac Pediatric Dentistry of St. Louis
Frontenac Pediatric Dentistry of St. Louis is led by Dr. Reed, a board-certified pediatric dentist with more than 16 years of experience. The practice works only with children and teens, which means the team has learned all the little ways to help a visit feel calm and even fun. Children are walked through each step and shown, in words that make sense to them, why taking care of their smile matters. Paired with state-of-the-art, newest technology, that approach allows every child’s teeth to be cleaned and examined to a high standard while keeping them at ease. Families looking for a gentle, kid-friendly dental cleaning in the St. Louis area are warmly welcome. Book an appointment today.
Testimonial
Dr. Reed is a very knowledgeable and caring pediatric dentist. They were so great with my son during his procedure and made him feel comfortable and at ease. The office staff is very friendly and personable. My boys have no fears going to their regular cleanings which is awesome. They really went above and beyond to get my son into the office when his tooth was hurting. I would recommend this practice to anyone. And on top of it the office is beautiful and perfect for children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most dental professionals recommend a child’s first visit on or before their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish a baseline for oral health and give parents trusted guidance during the earliest stages of development.
What to Expect at a First Pediatric Dental Visit
During the first appointment, our team will:
- Gently examine the teeth, gums, and oral tissues
- Assess early risk factors for cavities
- Discuss teething discomfort and how to soothe it safely
- Review feeding habits, oral hygiene, and daily routines
- Share age-appropriate guidance for brushing and home care
Our goal is to make the experience comfortable for both child and parent. Early visits help build familiarity and trust, so future appointments feel routine.