children
Pediatric Dentistry
Dental care for infants, children and teens: checkups, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, fillings and habit guidance, with an approach paced for kids.
Draft guide — written with AI assistance and pending review by a licensed dental professional. It is general information, not dental advice.
Who it's for
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or when the first tooth appears, then regularly as they grow.
How it goes
- 1A gentle, get-acquainted approach for young children
- 2Exam of teeth, gums, bite and development
- 3Cleaning, fluoride and sealants as appropriate
- 4Guidance for parents on brushing, diet and habits
Recovery: No recovery for checkups. After a filling, watch that a numb child does not bite their cheek or lip until the anesthetic wears off.
What's included?
A treatment total is usually several line items added together. This is why two quotes for “the same” treatment can differ. Not every component below is required for every patient — your plan should list only what your case needs.
Child exam D0145
Always part of this treatmentOral evaluation for a child under three; older children use the periodic exam code.
Child cleaning D1120
Always part of this treatmentCleaning sized for a child.
Fluoride varnish D1206
Commonly includedCavity-preventing varnish, commonly recommended for children.
Sealant (per tooth) D1351
Only if your case needs itA protective coating on the grooves of back teeth. Recommended for cavity-prone molars.
Why prices differ
- Age and cooperation
- Sealants and fluoride
- Sedation for complex treatment
Questions to ask your dentist
- “Are sealants recommended, and on which teeth?”
- “Is fluoride varnish included?”
- “What age do you start X-rays?”
Insurance tips
Children's preventive care is widely covered; MassHealth covers dental care for children under 21.