Children’s Dentistry at All About Smiles | Ettalong & Kincumber
Bringing a child to the dentist isn’t always easy. Some kids are nervous. Some are full of questions. Some just want to get it over with so they can have a sticker. We’ve seen it all, and we meet every child exactly where they are.
Our team at All About Smiles is experienced in working with children of all ages and temperaments. We’re patient, we’re warm, and we know how to make even the most anxious little patient feel at ease. We explain things in ways that make sense to kids, we never rush, and we always take the time to answer your questions too.
Bulk billed kids' dental through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule
We're committed to making quality dental accessible for every family. All About Smiles Ettalong & Kincumber accept the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), a Medicare program that provides eligible children aged 0–17 with up to $1,158 in dental benefits over two consecutive calendar years.
The CDBS covers a wide range of services including examinations, X-rays, cleans, fissure sealants, fillings, and extractions. Eligibility is linked to certain government payments, including Family Tax Benefit Part A.
Not sure if your child is eligible? We're happy to help you verify your eligibility and remaining balance.
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 start erupting but no later than 3 years.
Often we suggest that little ones come along to a routine appointment that another family member is having and experience sitting in the chair and get used to sounds and smells, just to get them acquainted with it. Our dental therapists are highly experienced with children and have the extra time that some children may need to build that important relationship and the balloons and stickers don’t hurt either!
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. The check-ups will assess that the teeth are all growing correctly, are healthy and, will notify the dentist in the instance that there are more complex dental problems now or in the near future. With regular check-ups and good dental hygiene practices, they may never need major treatment down the track.
What is a fissure sealant?
Fissure sealants are a simple and effective way of protecting young teeth from decay. The grooves in children’s teeth are often one of the most difficult areas to keep clean. As the grooves lengthen, they may leave gaps or “fissures” in the tooth surface where bacteria can grow. These fissures can be difficult to reach with a toothbrush.
As a means of protecting the teeth, the dentist will clean thoroughly and then seal over the fissure with a plastic coating. The fissure sealant prevents any future bacteria from settling in the hard to reach places.
How can I protect my child’s oral health at home?
One of the best methods you can take at home is to lead by example. You will need to help your child brush their teeth until they are old enough to manage it themselves.
Once they are brushing on their own, a twice daily brushing habit with a soft tooth brush will help to keep them cavity free with healthy gums.
Book your child's dental appointment today!
Whether it's your child's very first visit or you're looking for a dental home that truly gets kids, we'd love to welcome your family to All About Smiles. We have two convenient locations on the Central Coast so that quality children's dentistry is never far away.
Contact our friendly team today to book your child’s dental appointment or to ask any questions.
