Paediatric Dentistry at Collins Street Specialist Centre

Paediatric dentistry is the dental specialty devoted to babies, children and teenagers. At Collins Street Specialist Centre, our specialist paediatric dentists, Dr Susan Hinckfuss, Dr Sarah Scott, Dr Angel Babu and Dr Aish Kesava, look after the growth and development of young teeth, prevent and treat decay, manage dental injuries, and care for children who are anxious or have additional health needs. They see children on Level 8 of the Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne. Call (03) 9650 2726 to discuss your child's needs.

What does a paediatric dentist do?

A paediatric dentist focuses on prevention as much as treatment. At each visit they check how your child's teeth and jaws are developing, look for early signs of decay, and give practical advice on brushing, diet and habits such as thumb sucking. When treatment is needed, it is planned around your child's age, temperament and stage of development.

Common reasons families see our paediatric dentists include:

• decay in baby teeth, particularly at a young age (2, 3 or 4 years) or several cavities at once
• toothache, or swelling of the gums or face
• injuries to the teeth from falls or sport
• crowding or concerns about how the teeth are coming through
• difficulty with cleaning teeth at home
• a fear of the dentist, or a previous visit that did not go well
• medical, physical, developmental or behavioural needs that make routine dental care harder

How is a paediatric specialist different from a general dentist?

General dentists and oral health therapists play an important role in children's dental care, including check-ups, cleans, fissure sealants and small fillings. A specialist paediatric dentist has completed the same dental degree and then several further years of university training in children's dentistry, before being registered as a specialist by the Dental Board of Australia. That extra training covers more complex treatment, child development and the communication skills needed to help young patients feel settled.

The choice of who sees your child is yours. Your family dentist may suggest a specialist when treatment is complex, when a child is very young or anxious, or when other health needs are involved. Not every practitioner who treats children is a registered specialist, so you can check the AHPRA register at ahpra.gov.au before booking.

How do we help children feel comfortable?

Our paediatric dentists take time to build trust before starting treatment. We explain each step in words children understand and let them see and touch the instruments where that helps. Our team uses an approach called "teddy bear therapy", where the dentist first shows the steps on a toy, so the visit feels familiar before anything happens in your child's mouth. Short, positive first visits can make later appointments easier.

When should your child first see a dentist?

There is no age that is too young. An early visit lets the dentist check the first teeth, talk with you about feeding, brushing and fluoride, and spot problems before they cause pain. Children with early signs of decay or a family history of dental problems may benefit from earlier and more frequent reviews.

Which of our specialists provide paediatric dentistry?

What happens at your child's first appointment?

At the first visit the dentist will ask about your child's medical history, feeding and brushing routine, and any concerns you have. They then examine the teeth and gums, sometimes with your child sitting on your lap. X-rays are taken only when they are needed. The dentist explains what they have found, what treatment (if any) is recommended, the options available and the likely costs, and gives you time to ask questions.

Treatment options and risks

Treatment can include fillings and crowns for baby and adult teeth, treatment of the nerve in a baby tooth, extractions, space maintainers and care after dental injuries. Some children manage treatment well in the chair with local anaesthetic. For others, particularly very young children or those with complex needs, sedation or treatment under general anaesthetic may be discussed, which usually takes place in a hospital or day surgery setting. Every option has benefits and risks, and your dentist will explain those that apply to your child so you can decide together.

Working with our other specialists

Children's dental care sometimes involves other fields. Our paediatric dentists work with our orthodontists when the position of the teeth or the growth of the jaws needs attention, and with our oral and maxillofacial surgeons when a child needs surgery, for example to uncover a tooth that has not come through. Because these specialists practise together, records and plans can be shared directly.

Cost and payment

Fees depend on the treatment your child needs and how it is provided, so the dentist will give you a written estimate after the first visit. Bring your private health fund card, as children's dental treatment may be partly covered depending on your level of cover. Payment plans through Payright and TLC, and early release of superannuation through Supercare for a dependant's treatment, are available subject to each provider's eligibility criteria. See our payment plans page.

Frequently asked questions

Do we need a referral to see a paediatric dentist?

Referral arrangements for children can differ from those for adults. Please call (03) 9650 2726 and confirm whether a referral is needed for your child when you book. If your family dentist has written a letter or taken X-rays, bring them along so our dentist can review them.

Should I stay with my child during the appointment?

Most parents stay with younger children, and your presence can help them feel safe. Your dentist will talk with you about what suits your child, as some older children settle more easily on their own. You are always welcome to ask questions before and after treatment.

What can I do at home to prepare my child?

Keep the conversation positive and simple, and avoid words that may frighten them. Reading a picture book about visiting the dentist, or practising "open wide" at home, can help. Try to book a time of day when your child is usually rested, and let our team know about any fears or past experiences.

Can my child keep seeing our family dentist?

Yes. Many children see our paediatric dentists for a particular course of treatment and continue routine check-ups with their family dentist. With your consent, we send your dentist a summary so care stays coordinated.

Related pages

• Our services
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Our team
• Payment plans
• Contact us

Collins Street Specialist Centre at a glance

• Registered specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics and paediatric dentistry, in one practice.
• Level 8, Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne, on the corner of Collins and Swanston Streets.
• Payment plans through Payright, TLC and Supercare, subject to eligibility.
• Call (03) 9650 2726 or email theteam@collinsstreetspecialistcentre.com.au.

Contact Collins Street Specialist Centre

Every patient is different, so results, recovery times and potential risks vary from person to person. This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for a consultation. Seek advice from an appropriately qualified, AHPRA-registered practitioner before proceeding with treatment.