At Sparkling Dental, we welcome children of all ages and provide dental care tailored to their stage of development. Early visits can help children become familiar with the dental environment and give parents an opportunity to ask questions about oral health. Regular checkups also allow the dentist to monitor growth and development over time.
Dental Checkups for Children
We recommend that children begin attending dental checkups from around the age of two. These early appointments are generally short and are designed to help children feel comfortable in the dental chair.
During the visit, your dentist may:
- Examine your child’s teeth, gums and bite
- Assess tooth eruption and jaw development
- Provide advice on brushing and flossing for young children
- Discuss diet, feeding habits and the use of bottles or pacifiers
- Answer parents’ questions about oral health and preventive care
Oral Health at Different Stages
- Birth to 3 Years — Primary (baby) teeth support speech, eating and jaw development. Your dentist can check how teeth are erupting and provide advice on habits such as thumb-sucking or bottle use.
- Ages 6 to 12 Years — During this time, primary teeth are gradually replaced by permanent (adult) teeth. Your dentist can monitor tooth eruption, check for cavities and provide preventive measures. For children who play sports, a custom-fitted mouthguard may be recommended to help protect the teeth.
- Teenage Years — As permanent teeth become established, dentists continue to check alignment, oral hygiene and the presence of wisdom teeth. Teenagers may also benefit from discussions about diet and lifestyle choices that affect oral health.
Orthodontic Assessments
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation by around the age of seven. This assessment may involve reviewing:
- Jaw growth and development
- The way teeth come together (the bite)
- Tooth alignment
If there are signs that orthodontic care may be appropriate, your dentist can advise whether a referral to a specialist orthodontist is recommended.
Signs That May Indicate the Need for an Orthodontic Assessment
Parents may wish to seek advice if they notice any of the following:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Persistent thumb-sucking or similar oral habits
- Difficulty chewing food
- Speech difficulties
- Teeth that do not meet properly when biting
Visiting Sparkling Dental for Children's Dental Care
Every child is different, and treatment recommendations will vary based on individual needs. Our Neutral Bay practice includes a dedicated children’s area with toys and games to help make visits easier for families.
To arrange an appointment for your child, please contact Sparkling Dental in Neutral Bay. Our team will be happy to provide further information about children’s dental care.