Children’s Dentistry

Your Local Children’s Dentistry Experts

Children’s dentistry lays the foundation for lifelong oral health by promoting early prevention, education, and positive dental experiences. Feeling comfortable with coming to the dentist and preventing problems are two of our top aims when caring for children. We focus on making it a pleasant experience which helps to maximise your child’s dental health for life.

When should I take my child for their first visit to the dentist?

Baby teeth are the foundations for the adult teeth that will follow, so it makes good sense to start visiting your dentist once the baby teeth begin to erupt—ideally no later than age 3. These early dental visits are a key part of children’s dentistry, helping to establish healthy habits and positive experiences from the very beginning.

We often recommend that little ones accompany a parent or sibling to a routine appointment. This gives them a chance to sit in the chair, become familiar with the sounds and smells, and start feeling comfortable in a dental setting. Our dental therapists are highly experienced in children dentistry and take the extra time needed to build trust with each child—creating a calm, friendly environment. And of course, the balloons and stickers help too!

 What will happen on the first visit?

• A gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas
• If indicated, a gentle cleaning, which includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque buildup or stains
• Discuss preventive techniques including fissure sealing of molar teeth and fluoride applications to help keep your children’s teeth free of disease
• A demonstration on proper home cleaning.
  

  

How often should my child visit the dentist?

Just like adults, we recommend regular 6-monthly check-ups as part of good children’s dentistry. These check-ups ensure that the teeth are developing correctly, are healthy, and allow the dentist to identify any complex dental issues early on. With regular visits and good dental hygiene practices, children may never need major treatment down the track. If your child has anxiety around being at the dentist, we do offer sedation dentistry, please speak to our dentists for more information.

Are baby teeth really that important if they eventually fall out?

Yes, baby teeth play a crucial role in your child’s overall development. While they’re temporary, they have a lasting impact on oral health. Healthy baby teeth help with proper chewing, speech development, and hold space for adult teeth to come through correctly. They also guide the adult teeth into their correct positions and support jaw development. If baby teeth are lost too early due to decay or trauma, it can lead to misalignment, infections, or the need for more complex treatments later on. Children’s dentistry focuses on early care and prevention to ensure baby teeth stay healthy until they fall out naturally.

How can I protect my child’s oral health at home?

Protecting your child’s oral health starts with good habits at home—and one of the most effective approaches is to lead by example. Children often mimic their parents’ behaviours, so demonstrating consistent and positive dental hygiene practices helps them understand the importance of caring for their teeth.

In the early years, you’ll need to brush your child’s teeth for them, using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste (for children over the age of two). Brushing should be done gently, twice a day—once in the morning and again before bed.

As your child grows and gains better motor skills, encourage them to take more responsibility for brushing. Continue to supervise until you’re confident they’re doing a thorough job on their own—this is usually around the age of 7 or 8.

In addition to brushing, daily flossing is important once two teeth are touching. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks, and encouraging a balanced diet with plenty of water, fruits, and vegetables, also supports strong teeth and healthy gums.

These healthy routines form the foundation of good children’s dentistry. They not only prevent common dental issues but also help children feel comfortable and confident when visiting the dentist.

Finally, make dental care fun and engaging—use a timer or play a song to ensure they brush for two minutes, and let them pick their own toothbrush or toothpaste flavour. These small steps can help your child develop a positive attitude towards oral hygiene that lasts a lifetime. You can find more information on the Australian Dental Association website.

Book Your Consultation Today

If your child is due for a check-up, experiencing dental discomfort, or you simply want to stay on top of their oral development, schedule a children’s dentistry appointment at My Smile Dental.”