Every 6 months
Cleanings and checkups for kids
A six-month visit with a gentle clean, a careful look and coaching your child can actually use.
What to know
Most kids see us twice a year. A hygienist cleans and polishes, a pediatric dentist checks every tooth and how the bite is growing, and we take x-rays only when your child's age and risk call for them. You leave knowing what's going well and what to watch.
A good fit for
- Every child from the first tooth to age 18
- Kids who are due or overdue for a visit
- Siblings who want back-to-back times
- Teens with busy school and sports schedules
How a checkup runs
-
Clean and polish
15 minA hygienist removes plaque with child-size tools and a flavor your child picks.
-
X-rays if needed
5 minUsually once a year or less, based on age and cavity risk. We use small digital sensors.
-
Dentist exam
10 minA pediatric dentist checks teeth, gums, bite and how adult teeth are coming in.
-
Coaching and next visit
5 minTwo or three brushing tips for your child, the plan for you, and the next date booked before you leave.
Between visits
- Brush twice a day. Help until your child can tie their shoes.
- Use a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste under 3, a pea-size dab after.
- Floss where teeth touch. Floss picks are fine.
- Water between meals. Save juice for mealtimes.
What it usually costs
These are typical self-pay ranges at our office. With insurance or Kite Club, your share is usually lower. The exact number comes in writing before any treatment.
Insurance and Kite ClubCleanings and checkups
- Checkup, cleaning and fluoride
- $140 to $220
- X-rays, only when needed
- $45 to $120
- Kite Club members (no insurance)
- Included
Two checkups a year are covered by most PPO dental plans, Health First Colorado and CHP+. No insurance? Kite Club covers both checkups for a flat monthly fee.
Parent questions
Why every six months?
Kids' teeth and habits change fast. Six months lets us spot small things early, while they are still small. Some children with low risk may space visits a little further apart, and we'll tell you if that applies.
Do you take x-rays every time?
No. We follow age and risk. Many young children need none at all until the back teeth touch.
Can my two kids come at the same time?
Yes. We book siblings back-to-back or side by side, so it's one trip for you.
More answers on our parent FAQ.
More care for your child
Due for a checkup?
Pick a morning, after-school or Saturday time. Siblings can come back-to-back, so it's one trip for you.