Children’s Dentistry

Your local Children’s Dentistry Clinic

Feeling comfortable with coming to the dentist and preventing problems are two of our top aims when caring for children. We focus on making it a pleasant experience which helps to maximise your child’s dental health for life.

When should I take my child for their first visit to the dentist?

Children’s Dentistry are vital as baby teeth play an imperative role in your child’s overall development—they not only help with eating and speaking but also act as placeholders for the adult teeth to come. That’s why it’s important to start visiting the dentist as soon as those first baby teeth begin to appear, and no later than your child’s third birthday. Early dental visits help lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy habits and positive experiences.

To make the process gentle and stress-free, we often recommend bringing your little one along to a routine check-up for another family member. This allows them to become familiar with the dental environment—sitting in the chair, hearing the sounds, and experiencing the new surroundings—without any pressure.

Our friendly dental therapists are highly experienced in working with children and understand that some little ones need extra time and reassurance. We focus on creating a welcoming and fun experience, complete with balloons, stickers, and lots of encouragement to help build trust and confidence from the very beginning.

 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, children benefit greatly from regular dental check-ups every six months. Children’s Dentistry visits allow the dentist to closely monitor the development of teeth, ensuring they are growing correctly and remain healthy. During these appointments, any early signs of potential dental issues—such as crowding, decay, or bite problems—can be identified and managed before they become more serious. By staying on top of their oral health with consistent check-ups and encouraging good dental hygiene habits at home, your child is more likely to enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles and may avoid the need for complex dental treatments in the future.

What is a fissure sealant?

Fissure sealants are a common practice in children’s dentistry as it is a simple yet highly effective way to protect children’s teeth from decay. The natural grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth—known as fissures—can be quite deep and narrow, making them difficult to clean properly, even with regular brushing. These grooves can trap food particles and bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities in young teeth.

To help prevent this, the dentist will first thoroughly clean the tooth and then apply a protective plastic coating over the grooves. This sealant acts as a barrier, stopping bacteria and food from getting into these hard-to-reach areas and significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay over time.

How can I protect my child’s oral health at home?

One of the most effective ways to encourage good oral hygiene in children is to lead by example.

Children’s Dentistry especially in early years, it’s important to help your child brush their teeth until they develop the coordination and understanding to do it properly on their own.

As they grow more independent, establishing a consistent routine of brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush will go a long way in keeping their teeth free from cavities and their gums healthy. You are able to find more information on the Health Direct website.

Healthy Smiles Start Young

Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or part of their ongoing care, Blackwood Dental is here to support every stage of their smile. Book their next appointment with us and experience gentle, preventative dentistry that’s tailored just for kids.