Children's dentistry

What it involves

Children's dentistry covers check-ups, cleans, fissure seals and fluoride for baby and adult teeth, along with treatment of any decay or injury, adapted to a child's age and comfort. First visits are kept short and low-key, often just a look and a chat, so the dental chair becomes a familiar, unremarkable place.

We explain what we are doing in child-friendly language, let children hold and look at instruments beforehand where that helps, and pace the appointment around them rather than the clock.

When it’s recommended

A first visit around your child's first birthday, or when their first teeth appear, is a reasonable starting point, followed by check-ups roughly every six months from there — though your dentist may suggest a different interval based on decay risk. Bringing a younger sibling along to watch an older child's or parent's check-up can also help make a first proper visit feel familiar.

What to expect on the day

Appointments are generally around 30 minutes. We start with an age-appropriate conversation, then a look at the teeth and gums, and a clean if your child is comfortable with it. X-rays are only taken when needed and use techniques appropriate for children.

Many children aged 0 to 17 are eligible for basic dental services under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), which is a Medicare programme, subject to family income and Medicare criteria; we check eligibility for you before the appointment so there are no surprises.

Aftercare

After a clean or fluoride application, ordinary brushing (with adult supervision, as recommended for their age) can continue as usual. If any treatment was done, we will give you specific instructions and let you know what is normal to expect over the following day or two.

Building a simple routine at home — twice-daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste suited to their age, and limiting sugary drinks and snacks — makes the biggest difference between visits.

Fees

Eligible children may access bulk-billed care under the CDBS. Where an item falls outside the schedule or a family is not eligible, the periodic check-up and clean sample fee below is the closest comparable item. See our sample fees for common treatments.

Questions people ask

Is children's dental care free?

Many children aged 0 to 17 are eligible for basic dental services bulk-billed under the CDBS, depending on family income and Medicare criteria. We check eligibility before the appointment and let you know exactly what is and is not covered.

What if my child is scared or won't sit still?

That is completely normal, and appointments are paced around your child rather than rushed. We can also break a first visit into a very short look, with more done at a follow-up once they are comfortable.

Do baby teeth really need filling if they will fall out anyway?

Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth and are used for eating and speech for years before they fall out, so decay in them is generally still treated. We will explain our recommendation for your child's specific situation.

Can I stay in the room with my child?

Yes, parents and carers are always welcome in the room.