Child's cleaning
A typical case, in 6 steps over 1 visit. Typically visits come on a regular schedule, usually every 3 months to once a year, as the dentist advises. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Child's cleaning · Visit 1
Getting settled
At the first visits a baby sits in the dental chair on a parent's lap. Together, the parent and dentist can help make the visit fun.
Source: mouthhealthy.org
Steps in a typical case
Getting settled
At the first visits a baby sits in the dental chair on a parent's lap. Together, the parent and dentist can help make the visit fun.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Cleaning
As a child grows, the checkup includes a thorough cleaning of the teeth by a dental hygienist.
Visit 1 · Source 2
Exam
The dentist checks the teeth and gums.
Visit 1 · Source 2
X-rays if needed
The dentist may suggest X-rays to see inside the teeth and check for decay.
Visit 1 · Source 2
Fluoride or sealants if needed
The dentist may also suggest a fluoride treatment brushed onto the teeth to help prevent cavities, or a sealant, which is a coating painted on the teeth.
Visit 1 · Source 2
Home care tips
The dentist offers tips for home care, such as brushing twice a day for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day when the teeth touch.
Visit 1 · Source 2
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically 1 visit, with a thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist and an exam by the dentist. Source 2 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically visits come on a regular schedule, usually every 3 months to once a year, as the dentist advises. Source 2 |
| How long it lasts | Typically repeated at regular visits, so the dentist can set the schedule that is right for the child. Source 2 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: brushing twice a day for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing once a day when the teeth touch. Source 2 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes one visit. Would mine, and how long would it take?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D1120).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- First dental visit for baby. ADA MouthHealthy. www.mouthhealthy.org/life-stages/babies-and-kids/first-dental-visit-for-baby. Accessed November 14, 2026.
- Taking care of your child's teeth. Nemours KidsHealth. kidshealth.org/en/parents/healthy.html. Accessed November 14, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D1120.