Dental Cleanings and Exams for Children in Denver, CO
Routine dental cleanings and exams are the foundation of your child’s oral health. At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Kojo Danso and our team provide thorough, gentle cleanings and comprehensive exams designed specifically for children — helping your child maintain a healthy, cavity-free smile from infancy through adolescence.
Request an AppointmentWhy Regular Dental Cleanings Matter for Kids
No matter how well your child brushes and flosses at home, there are areas of the mouth that are simply too hard for a toothbrush to reach thoroughly. Plaque accumulates in those hard-to-reach spots — in the grooves of the back teeth, between teeth, and beneath the gumline — and if it isn’t removed regularly, it hardens into tartar. Once tartar forms, it can’t be removed with a toothbrush alone; it requires the specialized tools that only a dental professional has.
Left unchecked, tartar buildup leads to cavities, gum irritation, and eventually more serious dental problems. Regular cleanings every six months keep plaque and tartar under control and maintain the health of both the teeth and the gums.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning
Our skilled dental hygienists perform each cleaning with the care and gentleness that children deserve. We begin by carefully removing all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your child’s teeth — including below the gumline. We then use specialized tools to clean between the teeth and in the areas that are hardest to reach at home.
Once the cleaning is complete, we polish your child’s teeth to remove any remaining surface stains and leave them smooth and clean. A smooth tooth surface is not only more comfortable — it’s also harder for plaque to adhere to, which helps keep the teeth cleaner longer between visits.
We also apply a professional fluoride treatment at the end of the cleaning. This strengthens the enamel and provides months of added protection against tooth decay.
What Happens During the Dental Exam
After the cleaning, Dr. Kojo Danso performs a thorough examination of your child’s mouth. This isn’t just a quick look — it’s a comprehensive evaluation of the teeth, gums, jaw, and bite.
During the exam, Dr. Danso checks for signs of decay, including between teeth. He evaluates the health of the gums and surrounding tissues. He assesses how your child’s teeth are growing and developing — including whether permanent teeth are coming in correctly and whether any orthodontic issues may need to be monitored or addressed. He also examines the jaw for proper alignment and function.
Digital X-rays are taken as needed during the visit to give us a complete picture of what’s happening beneath the surface and between teeth. These images are an essential complement to the visual exam.
Home Care Guidance and Education
At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we see every cleaning appointment as an opportunity for education. We’ll take time to review at-home care with you and your child — demonstrating proper brushing techniques, discussing flossing habits, and offering guidance on diet and nutrition as it relates to dental health. We want to make sure your child is set up for success between visits.
If we identify any areas of concern — early decay, gum inflammation, or a developing bite issue — we’ll address it right away with a clear explanation and a plan. Our goal is always to catch problems early when they’re smallest and easiest to treat.
We recommend scheduling cleanings and exams every six months for most children. To book your child’s next visit, contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO, at (303) 757-8844.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings and Exams
How often should my child get a dental cleaning?
We recommend dental cleanings and exams every six months for most children. Some kids with higher cavity risk or developing gum issues may benefit from more frequent visits. Dr. Danso will advise you on the best schedule for your child after their initial exam.
What does a professional dental cleaning include?
A professional cleaning includes removal of plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces, cleaning below the gumline, flossing between teeth, polishing to remove surface stains, and a professional fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
For most children, dental cleanings are completely comfortable. Some kids may experience mild sensitivity if there’s been significant tartar buildup or if the gums are slightly inflamed. Our team always works gently and communicates with your child throughout the process to keep them at ease.
What does Dr. Danso check during the dental exam?
Dr. Danso performs a thorough evaluation of your child’s teeth, gums, jaw, and bite. He checks for cavities, gum health, tooth development, bite alignment, and any other concerns. Digital X-rays are taken as needed to evaluate what’s happening beneath the surface.
My child brushes every day — do they still need professional cleanings?
Yes. Even excellent brushers miss areas that can only be reached with professional instruments. Plaque hardens into tartar over time and must be removed by a dental professional. Regular cleanings also allow us to catch problems early, before they become costly or uncomfortable to treat.
At what age should children start getting dental cleanings?
We recommend beginning dental visits — including cleanings as appropriate — by your child’s first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Starting early builds positive habits and helps us monitor development from the very beginning.
Can you spot orthodontic problems during a routine exam?
Yes. During each exam, Dr. Danso evaluates how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing. If we notice signs of bite issues, crowding, or other concerns that may benefit from orthodontic attention, we’ll let you know and recommend the appropriate next steps. Early identification of these issues can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.