Paediatric Dentistry

Paediatric Dentistry: General Check-up, Cleans & X-ray

Comprehensive check-ups, cleans, and X-rays are essential components of child dentistry that play a crucial role in maintaining a child's oral health. These procedures are designed to ensure early detection of dental issues, prevent dental problems, and promote healthy oral hygiene habits from an early age.

Comprehensive Check-ups

During comprehensive check-ups, the dentist examines the child's teeth, gums, and mouth thoroughly. This examination helps identify any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems. By detecting issues early on, the dentist can provide prompt treatment, preventing further complications and potential pain for the child. Regular check-ups also allow the dentist to monitor the growth and development of the child's teeth, ensuring proper alignment and identifying any potential orthodontic needs.

Dental Cleaning

Dental cleanings are an integral part of maintaining oral hygiene. During the cleaning procedure, the dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the child's teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed. By thoroughly cleaning the teeth, gums, and hard-to-reach areas, the dental professional helps prevent dental problems and promotes a clean and healthy mouth. Cleanings also provide an opportunity for education, as the dental team can teach the child proper brushing and flossing techniques for optimal oral hygiene.

X-rays

X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool in child dentistry. They allow dentists to examine the child's teeth and jaw structure in greater detail, revealing any hidden issues that may not be visible during a regular examination. X-rays can help identify cavities between teeth, monitor the eruption of permanent teeth, assess the development of the jawbone, and detect any abnormalities or developmental problems. By obtaining this comprehensive view, dentists can make informed decisions regarding treatment plans, ensuring the child receives appropriate care for their specific dental needs.

Fissure Sealants

Fissure sealants are a preventive measure used to protect the chewing surfaces of teeth from decay. The procedure involves applying a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, known as molars and premolars. These teeth have deep grooves and fissures that can be difficult to clean properly, making them more susceptible to cavities. By sealing these fissures, the sealants act as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from getting trapped and causing decay. Fissure sealants are a non-invasive and painless procedure that can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in children.

Extractions

While dentists strive to preserve natural teeth, there are situations where extractions may be necessary for paediatric dentistry. Some common reasons for tooth extractions in children include severe tooth decay, infection, overcrowding, or the presence of an impacted tooth. Our dentists are experienced in performing extractions in a gentle and compassionate manner, ensuring minimal discomfort for the child. Following an extraction, dentists may recommend appropriate measures such as space maintainers to ensure proper dental development and alignment.

Pulpotomy

A pulpotomy is a procedure commonly performed in paediatric dentistry to treat a severely decayed or infected primary (baby) tooth. It involves the partial removal of the infected pulp tissue from the tooth's pulp chamber, which contains nerves and blood vessels. The procedure aims to preserve the remaining healthy pulp, alleviate pain, and prevent the spread of infection to the surrounding teeth and tissues. After the infected pulp is removed, a medicated filling material is placed to promote healing and protect the tooth followed by placing a stainless steel crown on the tooth. Pulpotomies are generally effective in saving the primary tooth, allowing it to function properly until it naturally falls out, making it an important treatment option for preserving oral health and maintaining proper alignment of the developing permanent teeth.

Treatment under General Anesthetics

Paediatric dentistry treatment under general anaesthesia is a specialized approach used for children who may have difficulty cooperating or are unable to undergo dental procedures in a standard clinical setting. This method ensures that necessary dental treatments can be safely and effectively performed while the child is unconscious and pain-free.

General anaesthesia is administered by a qualified anesthesiologist in a hospital or ambulatory surgery center, ensuring the child's comfort and safety throughout the procedure. 

Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)

CDBS, which stands for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, is an important initiative in pediatric dentistry in Australia. The program was introduced by the Australian Government to provide eligible children with access to essential dental services.

Under the CDBS, children aged between 2 and 17 years from eligible families can receive up to $1,000 worth of dental treatments over a two-year period. This program aims to improve children's oral health and promote early intervention and preventive dental care.

The CDBS covers a range of dental services, including examinations, X-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canals, and extractions. By providing access to these services, the program helps in identifying and treating oral health issues at an early stage, preventing them from progressing into more severe problems.

To get more insights on CDBS, click here or visit our clinic today to discuss the benefits.