We aim to provide families with a positive experience and a good attitude towards dental health. Good dental health starts from a young age. Regular dental checkups allow us to screen children carefully for dental cavities. We also monitor their dental growth and development, bite and any vulnerable teeth that may have inherent weaknesses in its structure.

Baby teeth, also known as ‘milk teeth’, are more susceptible to dental decay as the enamel is thinner. Dental decay in children is on the rise and is the most common dental problem. The pain and infection associated with untreated decay in baby teeth can often be distressing for both child and parents alike. For very young or nervous children, we offer Nitrous Oxide sedation to help manage any treatment required in the most comfortable way possible.

Baby teeth in children serve an important role in ensuring they maintain good nutrition, development of speech and appearance. They also play a role in preserving the space in the jaw that will later be needed for the adult teeth. Baby teeth are replaced with adult teeth in different stages throughout childhood. An unplanned early loss of a baby tooth can potentially contribute to crowding of the adult teeth, and often requires more complex corrective treatment in the future.

Children are still developing proper oral hygiene techniques. A great emphasis is placed on educating families about good oral hygiene and a dental friendly diet. Frequent snacking and a diet high in sugar and acid increases the risk of dental cavities. Unfortunately, there are a lot of hidden sugars in foods and drinks these days, particularly processed foods and drinks. It is important to have set meals and in moderation. We encourage children to rinse their mouth with water after meals and to drink water frequently.

At around 6 years of age, children start to erupt their first adult molars. At this time we screen them to check their vulnerability to dental decay, and can place fissure sealants to help protect the more susceptible teeth with deep pits and grooves from developing dental decay. A second set of adult molars erupts at around 12 years of age, and are managed in the same way.

Your child may be eligible for Medicare-funded treatment through the Child Dental Benefit Scheme (CDBS). A bulk-billed scheme for children up to 17 years of age, it covers examinations, cleans, preventive fissure sealants, certain xrays, fillings and extractions. Please call us to see if your child is eligible for the scheme. However, eligible families will often receive notification from Medicare at the beginning of each year.