Children’s dentistry
It's important to take care of a child’s oral health from day dot. If your child has their first tooth or is six months old, we recommend scheduling their first dental visit.
The importance of early dental care
Taking your children to the dentist from a young age helps them form good oral hygiene habits for life.
It also ensures any dental issues are taken care of early on and helps avoid future problems from developing. Our friendly staff aim to make your child’s dental visits enjoyable and a normal part of their development. We recommend booking their first appointment when they get their first tooth or at six months old.
Preventative dental care at home
You’re never too young to look after your teeth! A child’s oral health habits should start from the moment they get their first tooth.
Don’t worry. Looking after your child’s teeth is as easy as caring for your own. Children need their teeth brushed twice a day and you can start flossing their teeth once they start to fit closely together. As they grow older, you can start teaching them how to brush and floss on their own.
Your child’s first appointment
At your child’s first appointment our friendly dentists will exam their teeth and gums to make sure everything looks healthy. Many young children want to be examined sitting in their parent’s lap as this can make the experience feel less scary. As your child gets older, they will naturally become more comfortable with each visit. Keeping up regular visits helps them get used to being examined and will ensure any problems with their teeth and gums are caught early.
What to expect at your child’s appointment
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See us at six months or after your child’s first tooth
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You are required to stay with your child
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Appointments take 20-30 minutes
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You may be asked about your child’s dental or medical history
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Free appointments for under 18s, years 9 and above
(Terms and conditions apply)
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Oral hygiene education and advice
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does children’s dentistry cost?
Dental care for school-aged children is publicly funded in NZ. Children in Year 8 and below should receive their dental care through the Bee Healthy Regional Dental Service but may be referred to a local dentist for more complex treatments. From Year 9 until they turn 18, children can choose any dental practice enrolled in the dental benefit scheme for their care. Please note that not all practices participate in this scheme. At Gentle Dental, all of our locations, except the Lambton Quay branch, are enrolled to provide free dental care for adolescents. This includes regular checkups, x-rays, teeth cleanings, fillings, extractions and any preventative treatments like fluoride or fissure sealants. This does not cover the cost of orthodontic treatments.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
You should book a dental appointment for your child after their first tooth erupts or at six months of age. Annual dental appointments will help your child stay on top of any dental issues before they become a problem.
How do I prevent my child from getting cavities?
More than 40% of five-year-olds have tooth decay. Cavities are also one of the leading causes of preventable hospital stays among New Zealand children. This is why the habits children adopt at home from a young age are so important. Children should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day, once their teeth are close enough to require flossing. It’s important to supervise your child’s brushing until they are old enough to brush all their teeth independently. Diet plays a large part in the health of a child’s teeth. Replacing soft drinks with sugar and processed food with whole foods, fruits and vegetables will prevent cavities from forming.
