Teeth Cleanings For Kids in St. Louis, MO

Every child’s dental cleaning appointment at Lenahan Smiles is designed to be gentle, thorough, and interactive. Our process includes:

• A visual exam by both a dental assistant and one of our pediatric dentists
• Use of a soft, spinning “prophy cup” to gently remove plaque and food buildup
• Flossing and personalized oral hygiene coaching
• X-rays when needed, based on your child’s age and cavity risk
• A fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities
• A warm, supportive introduction to tools for new or nervous patients

We explain everything in child-friendly terms so your little one feels safe and empowered.

Yes! Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, preventive dental care is essential for your child’s overall health and development. Baby teeth have thinner enamel and are more vulnerable to decay, which can progress quickly. Professional dental cleanings for children help prevent cavities and protect the health of future permanent teeth.

We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental appointment by age one, or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Cleanings typically begin once your child can comfortably cooperate, which varies for each child. For some kids, this is around age 2; for others, it might be a little later. Either way, we’re here to guide you.

Most children benefit from pediatric dental cleanings every six months. For children with braces or a higher risk of cavities, we may recommend a custom schedule, such as visits every three months. If you ever notice your child’s teeth need attention between visits, we’re just a phone call or text away.

Accidents happen, especially in active, growing children. Some of the most common reasons for a trip to the children’s emergency dental clinic include:

• Falls during play or sports
• Untreated cavities that lead to infection
• Biting hard foods, ice, or foreign objects
• Infections or dental abscesses
• Grinding or clenching (also called bruxism)

Our goal is to not only treat emergencies, but help prevent them in the first place.

A typical cleaning visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your child’s comfort level, cooperation, and whether X-rays or sealants are part of the appointment. First-time patients may take a bit longer as we go slowly and help them feel at ease every step of the way.

If you’re noticing any of the following signs, it may be time to schedule a visit:

• Yellow or brown discoloration on their teeth
• Red or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Brushing that only takes a few seconds
• A toothbrush that’s dry at bedtime
• Complaints of sensitivity or tooth discomfort

Regular cleanings can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

Absolutely. We welcome parents and guardians in the treatment area, especially during early or first-time visits. If your child starts their visit without you and they need you, we will always come and get you. Your calm and supportive presence can make all the difference in helping your child feel safe and confident during their dental cleaning. Every child has different needs, some do better with a parent with them, some do better without a parent there. 

Talk about the visit in a fun and positive way! For example, you might say, “They’re going to tickle your teeth and give you a cool new toothbrush.” Avoid using phrases like “It won’t hurt,” as this can unintentionally cause worry. If your child asks a tricky question, it’s okay to say, “Let’s ask the dentist when we get there!”

You can also role-play the appointment or read a children’s book about the dentist beforehand.

We specialize in working with children of all ages, and that includes children who feel nervous or afraid. Our team uses age-appropriate language, shows tools gently, and introduces each step with patience. For children with higher anxiety, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help them relax. Every child is different, and we’re here to meet them exactly where they are.

Yes. We typically apply a professional fluoride treatment after your child’s cleaning to help protect their teeth from decay. Fluoride is a safe, effective tool backed by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. We offer a variety of kid-friendly flavors, and even a flavor-free option for children with sensitivities.

Once your child’s permanent molars come in, we’ll likely recommend dental sealants to help prevent cavities in the deep grooves of those teeth. This is a common next step we discuss during your child’s regular cleanings. If sealants are recommended, we’ll explain the process and make sure you feel confident about the decision.

The cost of a child’s dental cleaning can vary depending on your child’s age, whether X-rays or fluoride are needed, and your insurance coverage. We are in network with Medicaid and Delta Dental plans. Our team is happy to provide an estimate and help you navigate your benefits, just give us a call or send a message.

At Lenahan Smiles, we offer more than just kids’ dental cleanings, we offer peace of mind. Here’s why families throughout St. Louis choose us:

• Board-certified pediatric dentists with advanced training
• A warm, family-first environment that supports children with special needs
• Gentle cleanings designed around each child’s emotional and medical needs
• Honest, transparent dental care with no unnecessary treatments
• Emergency care and flexible scheduling when you need it
• A reputation built on trust—serving multiple generations of local families

At Lenahan Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we make every child’s visit comfortable, educational, and empowering. Whether it’s your child’s first cleaning or a routine visit, you can count on us for gentle, compassionate care. Call, text, or request an appointment online today to book your child’s next pediatric dental cleaning. Let’s build a lifetime of healthy smiles, together.