Paediatric dentistry focuses on the growth and development of children’s teeth, on addressing any emerging problems and on preventing decay rather than treating it after it happens.
Who should treat my child?
It is your choice whether you bring your child to see a specialist paediatric dentist, general dentist or oral health therapist, but in order to make that decision it is important first to understand the difference between them.
In children’s dentistry, there is certainly a place for general dentists and dental therapists, whose role includes attending for checkups, routine cleans, fissure sealants and small cavities. However, there may also be good reasons to see or be referred to a paediatric specialist also known as a paedodontist.
One reason is to simply know you are consulting the highest qualified clinician available. Other reasons may be if your child suffers from severe overcrowding of their teeth, any oral injury, problems with taking care of their own dental hygiene at home, visible decay at a young age (2, 3 or 4), more than one serious cavity, severe toothache, swelling of the gums or cheeks, or fear of the dentist or any other special needs in the behavioural arena.
Our paediatric dentist often works in seamless collaboration with our specialist orthodontists in cases where correction to the position of the teeth is required.
Anxiety & Behavioural Problems
Your child can be seen by a general dentist or dental therapist for general check-up appointments, and a general dentist can perform any general procedures. However, if a dentist or dental therapist identifies any dental problems that require complex treatment (such as developmental difficulties or paediatric periodontal disease) or if a child presents with behavioural problems (such as a medical, physical or mental disability), the dentist or therapist may recommend your child be seen by a paediatric specialist.
Also, if your child is particularly anxious, it is a good idea to take them to a paediatric dentist, as these clinicians are experienced in creating a calm and child-friendly environment. It is never too early to see a paediatric dentist. You do need a referral to see a paediatric dentist.
Meet our Specialist Paediatric Dentists
To qualify as a registered specialist paedodontist in Australia, practicioners must first have the same degree as a general dentist, with honours. They then study for a further three to four years for a Masters degree or equivalent specific training in children’s dentistry, making them eligible to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia as a specialist paedodontist. In addition, they must be good at establishing children’s trust in a friendly environment and a large part of their skill set involves understanding child psychology.
Never assume that a paedodontist is a registered specialist; always check on the website of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).