- Fun, Gentle, & Caring
Children's Dentistry
Child-Friendly Care
Gentle, fun approach that kids love - building positive dental experiences
Bulk Billing (CDBS)
No out-of-pocket costs for eligible children under Medicare
Prevention Focus
Fluoride treatments and sealants to keep kids cavity-free
Kids Dental Care
Comprehensive Children's Dental Services
Kids Dental Check-Ups & Cleans
Comprehensive examinations and gentle cleanings for healthy young smiles
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for your child’s oral health. At Caloundra Dental Studio, we make dental visits fun and stress-free, helping children develop positive attitudes toward dental care that last a lifetime. Our gentle approach and child-friendly environment ensure your little ones feel comfortable and safe.
What Happens During a Kids Dental Check-Up?
We perform a thorough but gentle examination of your child’s teeth, gums, jaw development, and bite. We check for cavities, assess tooth eruption patterns, screen for orthodontic issues, and ensure healthy oral development. Our team takes time to explain everything in kid-friendly language, making the experience educational and positive.
- What to Expect
- Friendly greeting and tour of the treatment room (first visit)
- Gentle examination of teeth and gums
- Assessment of jaw and bite development
- Checking for cavities and early dental issues
- Professional cleaning with flavoured polish
- Fluoride treatment for cavity prevention
- Education on proper brushing and flossing techniques
- Discussion with parents about oral health
- Sticker or small reward for being brave!
- Benefits
- Early detection of dental problems
- Prevention of cavities and decay
- Monitoring proper tooth development
- Building positive dental experiences
- Establishing good oral hygiene habits
- Preventing future orthodontic issues
- Professional fluoride protection
- Peace of mind for parents
When Should My Child Start Dental Visits?
The Australian Dental Association recommends children have their first dental visit by age 1, or when their first tooth appears. Early visits help children become familiar with the dental environment and allow us to monitor proper tooth development from the start. Regular 6-month check-ups should continue throughout childhood and adolescence.
Preparing Your Child for Their Dental Visit
- •Talk positively about the dentist – avoid words like “pain,” “hurt,” or “scary”
- •Read children’s books about visiting the dentist
- •Play “dentist” at home, taking turns examining teeth
- •Bring a favourite toy or comfort item
- •Schedule appointments when your child is well-rested (morning is often best)
- •Stay calm and positive – children pick up on parent anxiety
- •Praise and reward brave behaviour
- •Let us know if your child is nervous – we’re experts at easing fears!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children should have dental check-ups and cleans every 6 months. However, children at higher risk of decay or with orthodontic issues may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months). We’ll recommend a schedule based on your child’s individual needs.
At what age do children start losing baby teeth?
Children typically start losing baby teeth around age 6, though some start earlier or later. Baby teeth usually fall out in the order they came in. By age 12-13, most children have lost all their baby teeth and have their permanent teeth (except wisdom teeth).
Are baby teeth really important if they’re just going to fall out?
Yes! Baby teeth are crucial for proper eating, speech development, and holding space for permanent teeth. Premature loss of baby teeth due to decay can cause permanent teeth to come in crooked, leading to orthodontic problems. Healthy baby teeth set the foundation for healthy adult teeth.
What if my child is scared or anxious about the dentist?
Dental anxiety is common in children. Our team is specially trained to work with nervous kids. We use gentle techniques, explain everything in simple terms, and go at your child’s pace. Tell us about any fears beforehand so we can adapt our approach. Many anxious children become our most enthusiastic patients!
Should I stay with my child during the appointment?
For younger children (under 4-5) and first visits, we encourage parents to stay. Older children often do better when parents wait in the reception area, as it helps build independence and allows them to communicate directly with the dentist. We’ll always discuss what works best for your family.
How can I prevent cavities in my child’s teeth?
Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, limit sugary foods and drinks, avoid putting babies to bed with bottles, ensure regular dental check-ups, consider dental sealants for molars, and encourage drinking water throughout the day.
Bulk Billing (CDBS / Medicare)
Free or subsidised dental care for eligible children through Medicare
The Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) provides up to $1,095 in benefits over two calendar years for eligible children aged 2-17 years. At Caloundra Dental Studio, we bulk bill eligible patients under the CDBS, meaning there are no out-of-pocket costs for covered treatments. This makes essential dental care accessible and affordable for families.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
CDBS is a Medicare program that covers basic dental services including check-ups, x-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canals, and extractions. It provides $1,095 in benefits over two consecutive calendar years (not per year – over a 2-year period). Benefits cannot be carried over and reset every two years.
Who is Eligible for CDBS?
- •Children aged 2-17 years
- •Family receives Family Tax Benefit Part A, OR
- •Family receives certain other Australian Government payments
- •Child must be eligible for Medicare
- •Eligibility is determined by the Department of Human Services
- •You don’t need a health care card (just Medicare and Family Tax Benefit A)
What Treatments Are Covered?
Covered Services
- ✓Dental examinations and check-ups
- ✓X-rays (as clinically necessary)
- ✓Professional cleaning (scale and clean)
- ✓Fluoride treatments
- ✓Fissure sealants (protective coating on molars)
- ✓Fillings (white composite or amalgam)
- ✓Root canal treatment
- ✓Tooth extractions
- ✓Mouthguards (custom sports guards in some cases)
Not Covered
- ✗Orthodontic or cosmetic dental work
- ✗Hospital or specialist dental treatment costs
- ✗Dental services already covered under public health programs
How Does Bulk Billing Work?
When you book an appointment, we’ll check your child’s CDBS eligibility through Medicare. If eligible, we bulk bill Medicare directly for covered services – you pay nothing out-of-pocket for treatments within the benefit cap. We’ll keep track of the balance and let you know how much of the $1,095 benefit remains. If treatment exceeds the cap, we’ll discuss costs before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child is eligible for CDBS?
The easiest way is to check your MyGov account linked to Medicare, or call Medicare on 132 011. You can also ask us to check eligibility when you book an appointment. If you receive Family Tax Benefit Part A, your child is likely eligible.
Is the $1,095 per year or total?
It’s a total of $1,095 over TWO consecutive calendar years, not per year. For example, benefits available from January 2024 to December 2025 total $1,095 combined. Any unused benefits don’t carry over – they reset every two years.
What happens if treatment costs more than $1,095?
If your child needs treatment exceeding the CDBS cap, we’ll let you know before proceeding. You can choose to pay the difference out-of-pocket, use private health insurance if you have extras cover, or spread treatment across calendar years if clinically appropriate.
Do I need a referral to use CDBS?
No referral is needed. Simply book an appointment with us and bring your child’s Medicare card. We’ll check eligibility and bulk bill if covered.
Can I use CDBS at any dentist?
Yes, CDBS can be used at any dental practice that accepts it. However, not all dentists bulk bill – some charge a gap payment. At Caloundra Dental Studio, we bulk bill eligible children for covered CDBS services, so there’s no out-of-pocket cost.
Does my child still need to see the dentist if they have no problems?
Absolutely! Preventive visits are crucial for catching issues early, applying protective treatments like fluoride and sealants, and teaching good oral hygiene. The CDBS covers these preventive visits specifically because prevention is better (and cheaper) than treatment.
What if my child has private health insurance?
CDBS and private health insurance generally can’t be used together for the same service. However, private insurance can cover treatments not included in CDBS (like orthodontics) or services exceeding the CDBS cap. We’ll help you determine the best option.
Child-Friendly & Gentle Care
Creating positive dental experiences in a fun, comfortable environment
At Caloundra Dental Studio, we understand that a child’s early dental experiences shape their attitude toward oral health for life. Our entire team is trained in child-friendly care, using gentle techniques, positive language, and a warm, welcoming approach. We create a fun, non-threatening environment where kids feel safe, comfortable, and even excited about dental visits!
Gentle Care Techniques
Distraction & Entertainment
We use TVs, music, or storytelling to keep kids relaxed and occupied during treatment.
Tell-Show-Do
We explain what we’ll do in kid-friendly terms, show them instruments, then gently perform the procedure.
Positive Language
We avoid scary words like “drill,” “shot,” or “pain,” using friendlier terms like “tooth sleepy juice” or “special toothbrush.”
Gradual Desensitization
For anxious children, we may start with simple exams and gradually introduce more involved procedures once trust is built.
Parent Participation
Parents can hold younger children or stay close for comfort while we work.
Breaks & Control
We give children a “stop signal” (raising hand) so they feel in control. We take breaks as needed.
Children with Special Needs
We welcome children with special needs and are experienced in providing gentle, adapted care. Please let us know about any sensory sensitivities, communication preferences, or behavioral considerations when booking. We can arrange longer appointments, quieter environments, or other accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should my child start seeing the dentist?
We recommend the first dental visit by age 1 or when the first tooth erupts. Early visits are short and gentle – mostly about getting your child comfortable with the dental environment and checking tooth development.
My child is terrified of the dentist. Can you help?
Absolutely. Dental anxiety is very common in children. We’re experienced in working with anxious kids and use specialized gentle techniques. Let us know about the fear when booking so we can take extra time and adapt our approach. Many fearful children become our biggest fans!
Will my child need numbing injections?
Only for certain procedures like fillings, extractions, or if treating pain. We use topical numbing gel first so the injection itself is nearly painless. For very young or anxious children, we discuss all comfort options, including sedation if appropriate.
How long do children’s dental appointments take?
Check-ups and cleans typically take 30-45 minutes, including time for your child to settle in. First visits may be shorter (15-20 minutes) to avoid overwhelming young children. We never rush – appointments are paced for your child’s comfort.
Can I stay with my child during treatment?
For toddlers and young children, we encourage parents to stay. Many older children (5+) prefer some independence and do better with parents in the waiting room, but we’re flexible. You know your child best – we’ll work with what makes them most comfortable.
Do you offer sedation for very anxious children?
For children with severe anxiety or extensive treatment needs, we can discuss sedation options or refer to pediatric dental specialists who offer sleep dentistry. Most children do wonderfully with our gentle approach alone, but we have options if needed.
Preventive Treatments (Fluoride & Sealants)
Protective treatments to prevent cavities and strengthen developing teeth
Prevention is the cornerstone of children’s dental care. At Caloundra Dental Studio, we offer professional preventive treatments including fluoride applications and dental sealants to protect your child’s teeth from decay. These simple, painless treatments can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and save your child from painful dental problems in the future.
Why Preventive Treatments Matter
Children’s teeth are more vulnerable to decay than adult teeth because the enamel is thinner and kids often struggle with thorough brushing. Preventive treatments add an extra layer of protection, strengthening enamel and sealing vulnerable grooves where cavities commonly form. Combined with good home care, these treatments can keep your child cavity-free.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods. Professional fluoride treatments provide a concentrated dose that offers superior protection compared to toothpaste alone.
What It Involves
- •Quick, painless application after professional cleaning
- •Fluoride gel, foam, or varnish painted on teeth
- •Takes just 1-2 minutes
- •Pleasant flavours (bubble gum, strawberry, mint)
- •No eating or drinking for 30 minutes after
- •Recommended every 6 months during check-ups
- •Covered under CDBS for eligible children
Benefits
- •Strengthens developing tooth enamel
- •Prevents cavities and tooth decay
- •Can reverse early signs of decay
- •Reduces sensitivity in some cases
- •Safe and effective at all ages
- •Fast and completely painless
- •Much stronger than fluoride toothpaste
Is Fluoride Safe?
Professional fluoride is completely safe when applied by dental professionals in controlled amounts. While we want children to use fluoride toothpaste at home (a tiny smear for under 3s, pea-sized for 3+), professional applications provide concentrated protection with no risk when applied correctly.
Dental Sealants (Fissure Sealants)
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars). These teeth have deep grooves and pits that are difficult to clean, making them prone to cavities. Sealants fill these grooves, creating a smooth surface that’s easy to clean and resistant to decay.
What It Involves
- •Teeth cleaned and dried thoroughly
- •Special solution prepares tooth surface
- •Liquid sealant painted onto grooves
- •Blue light hardens the sealant in seconds
- •Completely painless – no drilling or numbing needed
- •Takes just minutes per tooth
- •Can last 5-10 years with proper care
- •Covered under CDBS for eligible children
Benefits
- •Up to 80% reduction in cavities on sealed teeth
- •Protects hard-to-clean grooves in molars
- •Painless, non-invasive procedure
- •Long-lasting protection (5-10 years)
- •Much cheaper than treating cavities
- •Can be applied as soon as permanent molars erupt
- •Clear or tooth-colored (barely visible)
- •Safe and proven effective for over 50 years
When to Get Sealants
Sealants are most effective when applied to permanent molars as soon as they erupt – typically around age 6 (first molars) and age 12 (second molars). However, sealants can benefit children and teens at any age if they’re prone to cavities. We’ll recommend sealants based on your child’s individual cavity risk.
Fluoride + Sealants = Maximum Protection
When combined with regular check-ups, good home care, and a healthy diet, fluoride treatments and dental sealants provide powerful cavity protection. Many children who receive these preventive treatments remain cavity-free throughout childhood and adolescence, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fluoride safe for children?
Yes. Professional fluoride treatments are completely safe when applied in appropriate amounts by dental professionals. Fluoride has been used safely in dentistry for over 75 years. The benefits of cavity prevention far outweigh any risks when used correctly.
At what age can my child get dental sealants?
Sealants are typically applied when permanent molars erupt (around age 6 and again around age 12), but can be placed at any age if the child is prone to cavities. Some dentists also seal baby teeth if deep grooves are present.
Do sealants hurt to apply?
Not at all! Sealants are completely painless. There’s no drilling, no needles, and no discomfort. It’s just like painting the teeth with a special liquid that hardens quickly. Most kids don’t mind the procedure at all.
How long do dental sealants last?
Sealants can last 5-10 years or longer with proper care. We check them at every visit and can reapply if they wear down. Even if a sealant falls off after a few years, it has provided valuable protection during the cavity-prone early years.
Are fluoride treatments and sealants covered by Medicare (CDBS)?
Yes! Both fluoride treatments and dental sealants are covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) for eligible children aged 2-17. We bulk bill these services for eligible patients, so there’s no out-of-pocket cost.
Do sealants replace brushing and flossing?
No. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of molars, but kids still need to brush twice daily and floss to clean between teeth and along the gumline. Sealants are an extra layer of protection, not a replacement for good oral hygiene.
Can adults get sealants too?
Yes, though they’re most commonly applied to children. Adults with deep grooves or high cavity risk can benefit from sealants. However, many adults already have fillings in their molars from childhood cavities, so the opportunity has passed.
Will my child still get cavities even with fluoride and sealants?
While fluoride and sealants dramatically reduce cavity risk, they don’t guarantee 100% cavity prevention. Good oral hygiene, a healthy diet (limiting sugar), and regular dental visits are still essential. However, these treatments can reduce cavities by 70-80% or more.
Ready for Your Child's Visit?
Caloundra Dental Studio – Your child-friendly dental practice on the Sunshine Coast. We specialize in making dental visits fun and stress-free for kids of all ages. Bulk billing available for eligible children under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS). Our gentle, patient team creates positive dental experiences that set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.