When should I bring my child to the dentist?
This is a question we are commonly asked. The answer is you can bring your child in as early as 6 months. But we do advise all children visit the dentist as soon as they turn two. This is because all their “deciduous” or baby teeth should have erupted by this age.
What happens at the first visit?
At Purity Dental, we prefer a child’s first dental visit be easy, fun and pain-free.
Your child will meet their dentist and the team. We will give them the opportunity to get used to the dental chair and have a play with some of the instruments and equipment we will use during regular check-ups.
This first visit mainly involves an inspection of your child’s teeth to ensure nothing unusual is going on. We will also count your child’s teeth using a dental mirror and make it a fun game whilst doing so. If possible, the dentist will assess your child’s growth, identify if there are any dental cavities and go through any at-home hygiene routines.
Your dentist will endeavour to make it a positive experience for both child and parents!
Tips for preparing my child for their dental visit?
It is important to tell your child about their upcoming dental visit. Many children can easily pick up on anxiety in their parents. It is important allay any fears they may have by explaining dental visits are a regular occurrence for everyone to stay healthy.
Try not to use any negative words such as ‘pain’ or ‘needle’.
We find children are tired after a day at child-care or pre-school, therefore we find it best to book a morning appointment.
If you would like to speak to one of our dentists about your child’s first dental visit, please contact us on (03) 9540 8900.
What kind of dental problems can children develop?
These are just a few problems that we can see in children:
- Decay or cavities
- Plaque and/or calculus buildup
- Missing teeth
- Crowding in deciduous teeth requiring early orthodontic intervention
- Molar Hypomineralisation
What is the Child Dental Benefit Schedule?
The Child Dental Benefit Schedule is available for eligible children between 2–18 years of age. It is a means of basic dental care funded by the government.
Basic dental services are capped at $1000 per child over two consecutive calendar years.
Children are able to see participating private dental practices rather than waiting on a waitlist in the public health system.
For more information, please contact our office during business hours or visit https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/services/medicare/child-dental-benefits-schedule