General Dental

Yes, We Do Metal Braces at Vital Dental Care CampHill — Here’s What Parents Need to Know Yes, We Do Metal Braces at Vital Dental Care Camp Hill — Here’s What Parents Need to Know We get asked regularly whether we do metal braces at Vital Dental Care — and the answer isyes, we do. Dr Philip Chou, our principal dentist and founder, offers metal braces as part of ourorthodontic services here at Camp Hill Marketplace. If you’re a parent who’s been wondering whether your child needs braces, or you’re trying todecide between metal braces and Invisalign, this post is for you. We’ll walk through the mostcommon questions parents ask, and give you an honest picture of what braces actually involvefor your child. Why We’re Writing This Plenty of parents in Camp Hill, Coorparoo, Carina, Greenslopes and Holland Park don’t realise that Vital Dental Care offers braces — partly because we’re known for Invisalign and general family dentistry, and partly because we don’t shout about it enough. So consider this us shouting about it.Dr Philip Chou has been working in dentistry for over 19 years and has a particular interest in orthodontics and smile aesthetics. If your child is at the age where braces might be worth looking into, a consultation with Dr Chou at our Camp Hill clinic is the best place to start. When Should My Child Get Their Teeth Assessed for Braces? The general recommendation is around age 7 — which surprises most parents, because their child still has plenty of baby teeth at that point. But that’s actually the idea. An early assessment isn’t about rushing into treatment; it’s about catching problems while there’s still time to do something about them simply By 7, the first adult molars are usually through, which gives us enough information to see how the jaw is developing, whether there’s likely to be crowding, and whether the bite is tracking properly. If everything looks fine, we’ll just monitor things as the adult teeth come in. If something needs attention, acting earlier usually means a shorter, simpler treatment later on. Most kids who end up getting braces start treatment somewhere between 9 and 14 years old, once enough adult teeth are present. At this age the jaw is still growing, which actually works in our favour — teeth move faster and more predictably in younger patients than in adults. Signs that are worth getting checked: Crowded, crooked or overlapping teeth Gaps that don’t seem to be closing as adult teeth come in Upper teeth that sit too far in front of (or behind) the lower teeth The jaw shifting to one side when your child bites together Teeth that stick out at the front Difficulty chewing or biting certain foods Jaw clicking or discomfort Your child mouth-breathes regularly or snores       You don’t need to be certain something’s wrong — that’s what the assessment is for. Metal Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Is Better for Children? This is the question we field most. The honest answer is: it depends on the child and the case. But for a lot of children, especially younger ones, metal braces are the more practical and reliable option — and here’s why. The compliance issue is real Invisalign aligners need to be worn for 20–22 hours a day to work. Every hour they’re out of themouth is an hour the treatment isn’t progressing. For a motivated 16-year-old who genuinelywants straight teeth, that can work well. For a 10-year-old who leaves things everywhere, takes aligners out at lunchtime and forgets to put them back in, or loses them in a school bag — it’s a problem. Metal braces are fixed. They’re on the teeth doing their job regardless of whether your childremembers, cooperates, or cares. That’s a significant practical advantage for younger patientsand for any child who’s not particularly organised yet. Braces handle more complex cases Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate crowding in older teens. For more involved cases— significant crowding, bite issues, rotated teeth — metal braces give the treating dentist moreprecise control over how each tooth moves. If your child’s case is complicated, braces are likelyto give a better result. Treatment time Children’s teeth tend to move faster than adults’ because the bone is still developing. Most kidsare done in 12 to 24 months, often closer to 15–18 months for straightforward cases. WithInvisalign, if wear time slips, treatment can drag on longer than expected. So when might Invisalign be the better choice for a child or teen? – Older teenagers (15+) who are genuinely self-motivated– Kids in serious contact sports where metal brackets pose a real risk of cutting the inside  of the mouth during impact– Cases where the correction needed is minor and well within what aligners can handle At your consultation, Dr Chou will give you an honest recommendation based on what your child actually needs — not what’s easiest to sell. What Does Getting Metal Braces Actually Involve? The assessment We use 3D digital scanning rather than old-school dental moulds, so there’s no gagging on impression trays. The scans give us a precise picture of your child’s teeth and bite, and we use these to plan the treatment before anything gets put in their mouth. Getting the braces fitted Fitting usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half. The brackets are bonded directly tothe teeth, the wire is threaded through, and your child gets to choose the colour of the elasticbands that hold everything together. This is a bigger deal than it sounds — kids often genuinelyenjoy picking a new colour at each appointment. No needles, no drilling. The fitting process is painless. The first few days Your child will feel pressure and some tenderness for the first 3–5 days. This is normal — it’s theteeth starting to respond to the wire. It’s not sharp pain, more like the feeling of having worn tightshoes all day, but in your mouth. Children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen handles it well. Soft

Why You Should Trust a Dentist With Your Teeth Whitening, Not a Beauty Salon A brighter smile is one of the easiest ways to feel more confident. But where you go to get it matters more than most people realise. Beauty salons, kiosks, and DIY kits promise fast results at a lower price. A dentist offers something different. You get a result that is safe, precise, and built to last. Here is why choosing a dentist for teeth whitening is the smarter investment in your smile. Your dentist matches your whitening to your existing dental work Most adults have some form of dental work. Fillings, crowns, veneers or bonding. These materials do not whiten the same way natural enamel does. A dentist checks your existing dental work before you start. They know which shade your crowns and veneers were made in and how your whitening result needs to align with that shade. Without this step, you can end up with a smile where your natural teeth are bright white, and your crowns or veneers stay their original colour. The mismatch is obvious and hard to reverse. A beauty therapist does not have this training. They are not looking at your dental historyor your existing restorations. You are relying on guesswork for a result that sits on your face every day. Dental whitening products are simply stronger and more effective Teeth whitening works through a chemical reaction. Whitening gel breaks down stains inside the enamel using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The strength of that peroxide is what determines how deep the whitening goes and how long the result lasts. In Australia, only dental professionals are legally permitted to use and supply high concentration whitening products, typically above 6 per cent hydrogen peroxide. Beauty salons are restricted to much lower concentrations, often diluted further to meet safety regulations for non-dental use. This is not a marketing distinction. It has a direct impact on your result: Higher concentration formulas lift deeper, more stubborn stains Results last significantly longer between treatments A dentist can apply the product with more precision, targeting problem areas withoutoverexposing your gums Whitening is a chemical process applied directly to your mouth. Your dentist checks for decay, cracks, gum disease or exposed dentine before starting. These issues are common and most people are not aware they have them until a professional looks closely. If your dentist finds a cavity or receding gum line, they treat the whitening plan differently. They protect the area, adjust the strength of the gel, or recommend addressing the issue first. This stops the whitening product from causing pain, sensitivity or damage to compromised areas of your mouth. A beauty therapist is not trained to assess this. If a whitening gel reaches an exposed nerve or hits a cavity, the result can be sharp, lasting pain. In a dental setting, this risk is managed before it becomes a problem. Sensitivity is managed properly, not left to chance Tooth sensitivity is the most common side effect of whitening. A dentist knows how to manage it. They use desensitising agents, control treatment time, and monitor your comfort throughout the process. If you have sensitive teeth to begin with, they adjust your treatment plan accordingly. At asalon, sensitivity management usually is not part of the process. You are left to deal with any discomfort on your own, often without knowing whether it is normal or a sign of a bigger problem. You get a natural, even result, not an overcorrection The goal of whitening is a bright, healthy looking smile, not an unnatural block of white that looks out of place against your skin tone and features. A dentist has an eye trained specifically on smile aesthetics. They know what shade suits your face, your age and your natural tooth colour, and they stop at the point where your smile looks bright and healthy rather than artificial. This is where the shade matching skill becomes so important again. Your dentist is not simply making your teeth as white as possible. They are creating a result that looks like it belongs to you. The investment is in your long term oral health, not just a quick fix When you choose a dentist for whitening, you are not just paying for the treatment. You are paying for a professional relationship with someone who understands your full oral health history. They can track how your teeth respond to whitening over time, recommend the right maintenance schedule, and catch any other issues early during your visits. A salon transaction ends the moment you walk out the door. A dental relationship continues to protect your smile for years to come. The Bottom Line Teeth whitening looks simple from the outside. In reality, it is a clinical treatment that benefits from clinical expertise. A dentist brings training, stronger products, careful diagnosis, and an eye for natural results that a beauty salon simply cannot match. If you are ready for a smile that is brighter, healthier and properly matched to your dental work, book a whitening consultation with our team. We will assess your teeth, talk you through your options, and create a plan built around your smile, not a one size fits all treatment.

Is My Child Eligible for CDBS in 2025? Your complete guide to the Child Dental Benefits Schedule — from a bulk billing CDBS dentist in Brisbane. By Dr Philip Chou | Vital Dental Care, Camp Hill Good dental habits start young — and the good news is that the Australian Government has made it genuinely easier for families to keep their children’s teeth healthy, at no cost. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a Medicare-funded program that provides eligible children with up to $1,158 in dental benefits over a two-year period, and at Vital Dental Care, we bulk-bill the scheme entirely. That means eligible children pay absolutely nothing out of pocket. What Is the CDBS? $1,158 in Medicare-funded dental benefits per eligible child, over a 2-year period The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is a Federal Government initiative administered through Medicare. It was designed to give Australian families access to essential preventive and restorative dental care for their children, without the financial stress that can sometimes make parents put off a dental visit.   Under the CDBS, eligible children receive up to $1,158 in benefits over two consecutive calendar years. The two-year period begins the moment your child receives their first eligible dental service — so the sooner you book, the sooner the benefits start working for you. The cap is indexed each January, so it’s always worth confirming the current figure with your dentist or Services Australia. Is My Child Eligible? Eligibility comes down to three simple criteria that must all be met at some point during the calendar year: Age: 0-17 Years Your child must be aged 0 to 17 years at any time during the calendar year. Even if they turn 17 partway through the year, they remain eligible for that entire year. Medicare Eligibility Your child must hold a valid Medicare card and be eligible for Medicare on the day of service. Most children born in Australia are automatically eligible — just have the card handy when you call us. A Qualifying Government Payment Your family must receive at least one day of an eligible government payment during thecalendar year. The most common qualifying payment is Family Tax Benefit Part A (FTB-A),but there are several others (see below). Eligibility is assessed at the beginning of each calendar year. If your circumstances change throughout the year, you’re still covered — as long as your family met the payment requirement at some point during that year. Qualifying Government Payments include:   Family Tax Benefit Part A Parenting Payment Youth Allowance ABSTUDY Disability Support Pension Carer Payment Special Benefit Double Orphan Pension VCES (children aged 16+) MRCAETS (children aged 16+) This list may be updated by Services Australia. Please confirm with Medicare or call our practice for the latest details. What Dental Treatments Are Covered? The CDBS covers a wide range of basic dental services — the foundation of long-term oral health. At Vital Dental Care, our general dental treatments align perfectly with what the scheme offers.   ✔︎ Covered Under CDBS ✔︎ Examinations and consultations. ✔︎ Dental x-rays ✔︎ Professional cleaning and scale ✔︎ Fissure sealants (cavity prevention for back teeth) ✔︎ Fillings ✔︎ Root canal treatment ✔︎ Extractions ✘ Not Covered Under CDBS ✘ Orthodontic treatment (braces, aligners, retainers) ✘ Cosmetic dental procedures  ✘ Hospital-based dental services How to Check Eligibility & Book at Vital Dental Care We’ve made the process as easy as possible for Brisbane families. At Vital Dental Care, we bulk bill the Child Dental Benefits Schedule in full — meaning no gap fee, no surprise bills, and no out-of-pocket cost for eligible children.   Two Easy Ways to Check Call us directly with your child’s Medicare card number. Our friendly team will check eligibility on the spot — usually within a minute or two. This is the quickest option, and we can book your child’s appointment at the same time.   Check via myGov by logging in to your Medicare online account at myGov. You’ll be able to see your child’s CDBS eligibility status and remaining balance.   We believe every child in Brisbane deserves access to high-quality dental care, and the CDBS is one of the most powerful tools available to make that happen. Whether your child is visiting for the first time or coming in for their regular check-up, our team will make it a warm and positive experience. Book Your Child’s CDBS Check-Up Today The first step is the easiest — just call us with your child’s Medicare card number. We’ll confirm eligibility and get them booked in straight away. ✔︎ Bulk billed — no out-of-pocket cost for eligible children ✔︎ Friendly, parent-focused team in Camp Hill, Brisbane      ✔︎ We check eligibility on the spot — takes just a minute    ✔︎ Comprehensive care: exams, x-rays, cleans & more         BOOK FREE SMILE CONSULTATION learn about CDBS learn about CDBS learn about CDBS Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is CDBS available at Vital Dental Care Camp Hill? Yes. Vital Dental Care in Camp Hill, Brisbane offers CDBS services and bulk bills the scheme in full. Eligible children pay nothing out of pocket for their dental care under the program. Q: How do I know if my child is eligible for CDBS? Your child is eligible if they are aged 0-17 at any point during the calendar year, hold a validMedicare card, and your family receives at least one day of a qualifying government payment – most commonly Family Tax Benefit Part A. Simply call us with your child’s Medicare number andwe’ll confirm eligibility for you on the spot. Q: Does Vital Dental Care bulk bill CDBS? Yes, we bulk bill the CDBS entirely. There is no gap fee or out-of-pocket cost for eligible children when they receive CDBS – covered services at our practice. We believe quality dental care shouldbe accessible to every family. Q: What dental treatments are covered under CDBS? The CDBS covers examinations, x-rays, professional cleaning, fissure sealants, fillings, root canal treatment, and

How Much Does Invisalign Cost inBrisbane? A clear, honest guide – with real numbers – from Vital Dental Care, Camp Hill. Let’s cut straight to the question everyone types into Google, but few websites actually answer properly.   Invisalign cost in Brisbane typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, and where you land in that range depends on the complexity of your case, the type of Invisalign treatment recommended, and what’s included in your provider’s fee.   That’s the short answer. But if you’re genuinely considering Invisalign, you deserve the full picture — so you can walk into your consultation knowing exactly what questions to ask, and what to expect. Book a Free Invisalign Consult Invisalign Cost in Brisbane: A Breakdown by Treatmenl Type Not all Invisalign treatment is the same. The Invisalign system has different tiers designed for different levels of complexity, and each comes with a different price point.   Here’s a general guide to what you can expect in Brisbane in 2026: TREATMENT TYPE BEST FOR ESTIMATED COST (BRISBANE) TYPICAL TIMELINE Invisalign Lite Mild crowding, minor gaps, minor relapse after braces $3,000 – $4,500 3-6 months Invisalign Moderate Moderate crowding, spacing, minor bite issues $4,500 – $6,000 6-12 months Invisalign Full Complex crowding, bite correction, full smile transformation $6,000 – $8,000 12-18+ months These are indicative ranges for the Brisbane market. Your personalised quote will be confirmed following a clinical assessment.   The most important thing to understand: the right treatment is the one that actually achieves your goals – not the cheapest option available. Starting with a Lite package when your case needs Full treatment is like renovating one room of a house and wondering why the whole thing doesn’t look better.   At Vital Dental Care, we’ll always recommend what’s right for your smile — not what’s easiest to sell. What Affects the Cost of Invisalign in Brisbane? Two patients can walk into the same practice and receive very different quotes. That’s not inconsistency – it’s personalised dentistry. Here are the key variables:   The complexity of your caseThe more movement your teeth require, the more aligners are needed, and the longer (and moreinvolved) your treatment becomes. A small gap or mild crowding is a very different undertaking to correcting a significant bite issue across both arches. Full treatment vs. partial (single arch) treatmentSome patients only need one arch corrected. Others need comprehensive upper and lowertreatment. Your dentist will assess which approach is clinically appropriate — not justcosmetically preferable. Number of aligners and refinementsSome cases require refinement stages near the end of treatment to fine-tune the result. Ask your provider whether refinements are included in their quoted fee, or whether they’re chargedseparately. What’s included in the feeA thorough Invisalign quote should include digital scans, clinical planning, all aligner sets, regular review appointments, and your first set of retainers. Make sure you understand what’s bundled and what isn’t. Provider experience and technologyA highly experienced Invisalign provider using advanced digital planning tools will often deliver amore precise, efficient result — and that expertise has value. At Vital Dental Care, Dr Philip Chou uses the full suite of digital planning technology to map your projected outcome before a single aligner is placed. Does Privale Health Insurance Cover Invisalign in Brisbane? Yes – if your policy includes orthodontic extras cover, a portion of your Invisalign treatment can be claimed through your health fund.   Average Health Fund Rebate: $1,200 – $2,400 The average health fund rebate for Invisalign in Australia is $1,200 to $2,400, depending on your level of cover, your fund, and whether you’ve served any applicable waiting period (typically up to 12 months for orthodontic benefits). Check your policy’s annual orthodontic limit — most extras policies have a cap Some funds offer higher rebates when treatment is provided by a registered specialist Medicare does not cover Invisalign in most circumstances Major funds include: Bupa, Medibank, HCF, NIB, and Australian Unity Our team is happy to help you navigate your health fund entitlements and provide the item codes you’ll need to check your rebate before committing to treatment. Flexible Payment Plans — Making Invisalign Accessible Even when the outcome is exactly what you want, the upfront cost can feel like a barrier. That’s why at Vital Dental Care, we offer flexible payment plan options to spread the investment across manageable instalments – without compromising on quality.   We work with trusted third-party payment providers so you can begin your Invisalignjourney on terms that suit your financial situation. Interest-free options are available, and treatment can typically begin with a low deposit.   Because the smile you want shouldn’t be held hostage by a single upfront payment.   Ask our team about current payment options when you book your consultation. Is Invisalign Worth the Cost? It’s a fair question — and the answer, for most patients, is a resounding yes.   Here’s why: Invisalign isn’t just about aesthetics (though the result speaks for itself). Properly aligned teeth are genuinely easier to clean, less prone to uneven wear, and place less strain on your jaw. The long-term oral health benefits compound over time.   And then there’s the confidence factor — which, frankly, is impossible to put a number on. The patients who complete Invisalign treatment don’t just leave with straighter teeth. They leave differently. They smile more freely. They photograph differently. They hold themselves differently.   That transformation is worth something significant. Why Choose Vital Dental Care for Invisalign in Brisbane? There’s no shortage of practices offering Invisalign across Brisbane and Southeast Queensland. Here’s why our patients choose Vital Dental Care — and why they refer their friends.   🦷 Dr Philip Chou — expertise you can see in the results Invisalign treatment planning is both a clinical discipline and an aesthetic art. Dr. Chou brings a discerning cosmetic eye to every case, ensuring the outcome is not just technically correct, but genuinely beautiful. 📱You’ll see your result before treatment begins Using advanced digital planning technology, we create a projected

Oral Care Recycling Program Update We have an important update to share with our community. Our Oral Care Recycling Program at Vital Dental Care has officially come to an end. TerraCycle and Colgate have closed the national Colgate Oral Care Recycling Program effective immediately, meaning we are no longer able to accept used dental care products for recycling at our practice. While this change may come as disappointing news, we want to express our sincere thanks to everyone who participated over the years. Your contributions made a real difference, and we’re grateful for your commitment to reducing waste and supporting environmentally conscious habits. Why Has the Program Ended? The closure of the program was a decision made by TerraCycle and Colgate at a national level. As a result, all participating locations across Australia—including ours—must discontinue their collection services right away. Although we had hoped the initiative would continue, we respect the decision and want to keep our patients informed.   A Thank You to Our Community We’ve loved seeing how many of you embraced this initiative. From dropping off toothbrushes to bringing in old toothpaste tubes, your efforts helped reduce landfill waste and supported a shared passion for sustainability. We’re truly sorry for any inconvenience caused by the sudden closure, and we’re incredibly appreciative of your involvement over the years.   How You Can Continue Recycling If you’d like to maintain your eco-friendly habits, there are still options available. Many local councils provide HDPE or hard-plastic recycling programs that may accept certain oral care items. We encourage you to check your council’s recycling guidelines to see what can be included. You can also visit TerraCycle’s website to explore other recycling programs and potential drop-off locations in your area.   Our Commitment Moving Forward While this particular initiative has ended, our dedication to creating a healthier, more sustainable community remains unchanged. We will continue to look for meaningful ways to support our patients, promote positive habits, and contribute to environmental well-being wherever possible. If you have any questions about the program’s closure or recycling alternatives, please reach out. We’re always here to help.   Read more: Want Longevity? Floss! Mental Health Tips From Vital Dental Care

Want Longevity? Floss!  This is your reminder that flossing isn’t just about a brighter smile – it could also boost your health and longevity! Studies show that maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular flossing, is linked to a longer, healthier life.  How? By reducing the risk of gum disease and inflammation, flossing helps protect not only your teeth but also your overall health. While the exact link between flossing and increased lifespan is still being researched, studies do show that having optimal gum health can contribute to better systemic health in several ways: Reducing Inflammation Chronic inflammation is linked to various health problems like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Regular flossing removes plaque, reducing inflammation in the gums and lowering the risk of systemic inflammation. Preventing Gum Disease Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that damages gum tissue and bone. Periodontal pathogens have been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections. Controlling Blood Sugar People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, and vice versa. Good oral hygiene practices, including flossing, can help manage blood sugar levels in diabetics. Conception and a Healthy Pregnancy Couples with gum disease have been shown to have more challenging times conceiving. Pregnant women with gum disease are at higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies. Flossing during pre-conception and throughout pregnancy can help prevent gum disease and promote a healthier pregnancy. Boosting the Immune System A healthy mouth with good oral hygiene supports a stronger immune system. This could potentially help the body fight off infections and diseases more effectively. Remember: While flossing offers potential systemic health benefits, it is also crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle through optimal sleep, circadian cycles, exercise, diet, hydration, and regular dental checkups for optimal well-being. Speaking of dental checkups, make sure to book yours with us today!

Mental Health Tips From Vital Dental Care May is Mental Health Month, and here at Vital Dental Care, we’re joining the movement to raise awareness and support mental wellness! Below, we’ll be offering tips on mental wellness and dentistry and spreading smiles and positive vibes, offering a safe space for patients to talk openly about mental health concerns during their visits.  From calming decor to friendly staff, we’re here to make your dental experience a stress-free one. Let’s prioritise mental well-being together! Open Communication Have open communication with your dentist. It’s totally okay if you’re nervous or anxious about your dental appointment – let us know! We’re committed to fostering open communication. We believe that creating a safe and understanding environment starts with listening. That’s why we encourage open dialogue during every visit, providing a compassionate space for discussing your concerns. Your well-being matters to us, both inside and outside the dental chair. Let’s talk and smile together! We’re Fostering a Positive Environment From our friendly staff to our calming atmosphere, we’re dedicated to creating a space where smiles are abundant and worries are eased. Every visit is a chance to spread joy and support mental wellness. Let’s make every moment count with positivity and care! The Oral Health and Mental Health Link Did you know that oral health and mental health are closely connected? This Mental Health Month, we’re shining a light on their important relationship! From reducing stress to boosting confidence, a healthy smile plays a key role in promoting overall mental well-being. Let’s prioritise self-care from the inside out and smile brighter together!  From tips on managing dental anxiety to resources for maintaining a healthy mindset, we’re here to educate and support you every step of the way. Knowledge is power, and together, we’re breaking down barriers and building brighter smiles. Let’s learn and grow together!

A Child’s First Dentist Visit One of the most common questions we get is, “do you do children’s dentistry too?” The answer is YES!    If you’re nervous about taking your child to the dentist for the first time, don’t be. We try to make children’s appointments fun and stress free (and there’s even a goody bag at the end!).    We believe that good oral health starts early, and we help them every step of the way, from when they get their first tooth, to when they lose it, and beyond! If your little one is a little nervous (or even if you are – we completely understand), here’s a breakdown on what their first visit will look like.    What Happens at the First Appointment? We’ll Have a Chat with You Feel free to talk to us ahead of time and let us know a bit about your child’s personality. Do they get a bit scared or defiant in new situations? Are there any issues we should know about that may impact the appointment? The more we know, the more we can help to make the experience as positive as possible for you and your child.   Take a Ride Once your child is called in, the dentist will introduce themselves, and ask your child to jump into the chair for a ride. We’ve got a flat-screen television on the ceiling, so your child can lay back and watch their favourite shows to help them feel more at ease. This isn’t the norm for dental clinics, but we like to make visits fun.   Let’s Get Down to Business  The dentist will give your child a look at their gloves, mask, and glasses, and ask them how many teeth they have. Then it’s onto the tooth count and examining their jaw, gums, and bite. Much like an adult appointment, the dentist will use specialised instruments to clean away any plaque or tartar that’s built up on your child’s teeth.   The dentist will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and discuss common children’s dental problems such as decay, grinding, and teeth alignment with you and your child. Feel free to ask any questions you may have.   A dentist can also: Fix damaged teeth from trauma or decay Extract teeth Treat gum conditions Make custom mouth guards for sport Moving Forward A dental record is created and some photos may be taken to help with comparisons and explanations. A treatment and management plan will be put together to treat any issues and keep your child’s teeth and mouth nice and healthy.   Well Done! A trip to the dentist is a big deal for kids. So at the end of your appointment, we reward your child with a goodie bag to keep their smile bright and healthy.   Here’s what’s inside: New toothbrush Toothpaste Balloon Sticker Toy (tooth timer, toothbrush holder etc) Starting good dental habits young with regular trips to the dentist is going to set them up for dental success well into adulthood! Find out more about your child’s first visit to the dentist in our video walkthrough. Watch it here.