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Level 1,
Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins St, Melbourne

Why should my child see a paediatric dentist rather than a general dentist?

Meet Our Team

We choose to provide children with optimal care from a registered paediatric dentist when it comes to any of your children’s complex dentistry needs.

Who are Paediatric Dentists?

Paediatric dentists are registered specialists who focus on treating and managing the special dental needs of babies, toddlers and children. At Smile Solutions our paediatric dentists work closely with our general dentists and dental therapists.

To qualify as a registered specialist paediatric dentist in Australia, a practitioner must complete a general dentistry degree followed by a three-year clinical doctorate in children’s dentistry.

Paediatric dentists can perform a number of dental treatments for your child, including preventative care, treating dental decay, applying fissure sealants and dealing with children’s dental emergencies (including dental trauma and broken or lost teeth).

Should My Child See a Paediatric Dentist or a General Dentist?

It is your choice whether you bring your child to see a specialist paediatric dentist or a general dentist, but in order to make that decision it is important first to understand the difference between the two kinds of clinician.

Anxiety and 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.

Book an appointment with one of our specialist paediatric dentists

Why should my child see a paediatric dentist rather than a general dentist?