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Family · Canberra City
Kids' Dentistry
A child's first few dental visits set the tone for life, so we keep them short, light and pressure-free. They get a ride in the chair, we count their teeth together, they might get a go with the little mirror — and that's often it. If your kid leaves wanting to come back, that's a successful appointment.
What a first visit looks like
Honestly, not much — and that's the point. Your child sits in the chair (or on your lap if they'd rather), we have a look at their teeth, count them, maybe take a photo with the camera to show them. No X-rays, no instruments they don't want, nobody saying 'be brave'. We chat with you about brushing, bottles, snacks and dummies while they explore. High-five at the end is mandatory.
As they get older
Check-ups every six months keep an eye on new teeth coming through, spot early decay while it's tiny, and catch bite or crowding issues early — sometimes a small intervention at eight saves big braces at fourteen. When the adult molars arrive (around six and twelve), fissure sealants are a quick, painless coating that stops decay getting into the grooves.
Child Dental Benefits Schedule
Many Canberra families are eligible for the CDBS, which covers over $1,000 of basic dental care per child over two years — check-ups, cleans, X-rays, fillings, fissure seals and more — bulk billed, so nothing out of pocket. Eligibility is tied to Family Tax Benefit Part A. Ask reception when you book and we'll check for you in a couple of minutes.
For anxious kids (and anxious parents)
If your child has had a bad experience before, tell us when you book. We'll take it slower, maybe do a 'just looking' visit first, and let them set the pace. Kids pick up on your nerves too, so if you're a bit wary of dentists yourself, it's fine to say so — we'll make it easy for both of you.
Things people ask about kids' dentistry
The Australian Dental Association recommends around age one, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. Earlier than most people expect — but it's more about habits and familiarity than treatment.