Children's Dentistry
Local Dentist for Kids
At Curran Dental, we believe that good health begins early. Establishing a strong foundation through preventive care helps children avoid dental issues and develop lifelong health habits. Recognising that each child is unique, we tailor our care to meet individual needs.
Whether it is a child’s first dental visit or treatment for a cavity, our objective is to make every experience positive and stress-free. We endeavour to create a trusting relationship with children by employing gentle and age-appropriate communication methods. We explain each step of their care in terms they can comprehend. For children who are nervous or fearful, we utilize techniques such as distraction, "tell-show-do," and, when necessary, sedation options to ensure they feel secure during their visit.
“We recommend booking in for your child’s first appointment by their 1st birthday - or within 6 months of their first tooth coming in”
Oral health is a crucial aspect of a child’s overall well-being. We emphasize the impact of dental health on nutrition, speech development, and self-confidence. Our treatment plans are adapted to suit each child’s developmental stage, dental requirements, and lifestyle.
We value parents as partners in their child’s care. Providing clear and honest guidance, we encourage questions to ensure parents feel informed and confident. Our goal is to foster a love for dental care that remains with children as they mature into adults.
We accept the Child Dental Benefits Schedule
At Curran Dental, we are proud to participate in the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (Teen Dental), providing eligible children with essential dental care at no out-of-pocket expense. Through this program, we bulk bill eligible patients, ensuring cost is never a barrier to your child’s oral health. In 2025, the scheme covers up to $1,132 of treatment over a rolling two-year period, making it easier for families to access preventive and restorative dental services. For non-eligible children, we strive to keep dental care affordable by following the Medicare fee schedule where available. Additionally, we accept all private health funds, and with HICAPS facilities on-site, you can claim your health fund benefits on the day, leaving only the gap to pay. This convenience reflects our commitment to making quality dental care accessible and affordable for all families.
Services Offered
Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings
Comprehensive Exams: We conduct thorough dental examinations to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and gums, identify early signs of cavities, and assess overall oral health.
Professional Cleanings: Gentle cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease while leaving your child’s teeth sparkling clean.
Oral Health Education: We teach children and parents about proper brushing and flossing techniques and provide dietary advice to support strong, healthy teeth.
Preventive Care
Fluoride Treatments: Strengthen enamel and prevent cavities with quick and painless fluoride applications during regular visits.
Dental Sealants: Protect molars and premolars from decay with thin, protective coatings that seal the grooves of your child’s teeth.
Customised Preventive Plans: We develop individualized prevention strategies based on your child’s unique risk factors and oral health needs.
Cavity Prevention and Fillings
Tooth-Coloured Fillings: If cavities occur, we use durable, natural-looking materials to restore your child’s teeth while maintaining a healthy, aesthetic smile.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: We prioritise gentle and conservative treatment approaches to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
Early Orthodontic Guidance
Growth and Development Monitoring: Regular check-ups help us evaluate how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing. Identifying orthodontic issues early can lead to simpler, more effective treatment later.
Space Maintainers: If your child loses a baby tooth prematurely, we use space maintainers to ensure that neighbouring teeth don’t shift and affect permanent teeth alignment.
Emergency Dental Care
Appointments for Emergencies: From knocked-out teeth to sudden toothaches, our team is here to help when your child needs urgent care.
Trauma Management: We provide compassionate care for dental injuries, including chipped or fractured teeth, to restore your child’s smile quickly and effectively.
Management of Dental Anxiety
Gentle Techniques: Our team is skilled at calming anxious children, using positive reinforcement and age-appropriate communication to ease fears.
Sedation Options: For children who need additional support, we offer nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") or other safe sedation options to ensure a stress-free experience.
Paediatric Restorative Dentistry
Crowns for Baby Teeth: Durable paediatric crowns are used to restore severely decayed or damaged teeth, ensuring proper function and development.
Pulpotomies (Baby Root Canals): For teeth with deep cavities or infections, we provide pulp treatments to preserve the natural tooth until it’s ready to fall out.
Education and Habit Guidance
Thumb-Sucking and Dummy Use: Guidance on breaking habits that may affect your child’s oral development.
Dietary Counselling: Advice on reducing sugar intake and choosing foods that support healthy teeth and gums.
Teething and Infant Oral Care
Teething Support: Tips and products to soothe discomfort during teething.
Infant Oral Health Checks: We encourage parents to bring their child in for a first visit by their first birthday to establish a "dental home" and start preventive care early.
Special Needs Dentistry
We are experienced in providing personalised care for children with special healthcare needs, ensuring they feel comfortable and receive the best possible treatment.
Supporting the Transition from Children’s to Adult Dentistry
As children grow, we provide seamless care through every stage of their dental development, preparing them for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Book a Children’s Dental Check Up
Our modern clinic is conveniently located in the heart of Port Lincoln, adjacent Kmart in Port Plaza. Give your child a healthy smile for life - book their next appointment by calling Reception on 8682 3478 or book online.
FAQs
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The Australian Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in.
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Regular check-ups every six months are ideal to monitor oral health and prevent issues before they become serious.
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Baby teeth help with chewing, speech development, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Keeping them healthy is essential for overall development. If a baby tooth is lost early, space may be lost preventing the adult tooth from coming into the mouth.
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Yes! Our team is experienced in managing anxious children with gentle communication, distraction techniques, and, if needed, sedation options.
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Use positive language, avoid sharing your own fears, and read books or watch videos about visiting the dentist. Let them bring a favourite toy for comfort.
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Teeth grinding is common in children and often resolves on its own. We’ll evaluate if it’s causing damage or if a protective night guard is needed.
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It’s best to reschedule if your child has a contagious illness, like a cold or flu, to ensure their comfort and the safety of others.