We’re Proud to Be Noosaville’s Family Dental Practice
What happens during a child’s regular dental check-up?
The first person your child will meet after the receptionist is the dentist who will clean their teeth and assess their general oral health. At Noosa Parade Dental Care, we don’t do fluoride treatments. Dr McGregor believes there is sufficient fluoride in water and toothpaste. Fluoride gel or foam in a tray in the mouth is out of control and readily swallowed. Too much fluoride is unhealthy. The dentist may also take x-rays during the examination. Before your child leaves, the dentist will discuss the importance good oral hygiene habits and how to brush and floss correctly.
When should I book my child’s first regular dental check-up?
Taking your child to the dentist for the first time can be a daunting experience for both of you. Nevertheless, it’s important your child starts to get regular dental check-ups from the age of one or two years old, depending on your dentist’s advice. Fortunately, family-run practices like Noosa Parade Dental Care understand how you feel and will do their best to make sure your child has a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
How should I prepare my child for their first trip to the dentist?
Prior to your child’s first appointment, let them accompany you to your routine examination so they have some understanding of the process. Make the appointment earlier in the day so your child isn’t too tired and therefore more likely to become anxious or distressed.
Arrive early to allow your child to become accustomed to the new environment and, during the appointment, allow the dentist to have your child’s full attention. Talk openly and positively about your own experiences of the dental clinic to reassure your child.
With every adult check-up and clean we give a free baking soda toothpaste from Australian Natural care. The kids don’t miss out! They get a free gift pack as well.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most dentists recommend that, like adults, children have a regular dental check-up every six months. These are vital in terms of ensuring their teeth are developing correctly and in preventing tooth decay. The routine appointments also mean your child’s more comfortable in the dentist’s chair later in life. Regular visits also establish what will hopefully be a lifelong awareness of the importance of good oral health.
Are there any child dental benefits available to cover the cost of regular dental check-ups?
Six monthly appointments can prove expensive, especially if you don’t have private health cover that includes dentistry. For some, help is available through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. This government-funded program is aimed at assisting those in the lower-income brackets maintain their children’s health. While the benefits don’t cover more complex dental issues or procedures, they will assist in covering the costs of basic oral maintenance and regular dental check-ups.
Children’s Dentistry Noosa
We would love to meet your child for their next dental check-up. To book them in, contact one of the team today!
Children's Dentistry FAQs
Toothbrushes for kids are not simply brightly coloured with cartoon characters. They are designed to work best for your child’s specific needs. Children’s toothbrushes are typically smaller than regular toothbrushes to fit more comfortably in their little mouths. The bristles are also softer so as not to be too abrasive and damage their baby teeth. The compact oval head also help to protect your child’s gums.
A child should only use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Remember, their mouths are smaller than an adult’s so less toothpaste is needed. If your child is older and using fluoride toothpaste, a pea-sized amount will also ensure their safety should they accidentally swallow some toothpaste.
Just like adults, it is recommended that children visit the dentist at least twice a year. If your child is particularly susceptible to cavities, your dentist may recommend a more frequent visit. Once your child has had their first trip to the dentist, you will be advised on how often you should schedule an appointment.