--- title: Paediatric Dentistry - Frequently Asked Questions | Smile Solutions Melbourne canonical_url: https://directory.smilesolutions.com.au/faqs/paediatric-dentistry/paediatric-dentistry-frequently-asked-questions-smile-solutions-melbourne/ category: description: # Paediatric Dentistry — Frequently Asked Questions [Smile Solutions](https://www.smilesolutions.com.au/treatments/paediatric-dentistry/) provides specialist paediatric dental care at our Melbourne C... geography: city: state: country: metadata: phone: email: website: publishedAt: --- # Paediatric Dentistry - Frequently Asked Questions | Smile Solutions Melbourne ## Smile Solutions Paediatric Dentistry - Frequently Asked Questions [Smile Solutions](https://www.smilesolutions.com.au/treatments/paediatric-dentistry/), incorporating the Collins Street Specialist Centre (CSSC), provides specialist paediatric dental care from Level 8 of the Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne CBD. The Smile Solutions paediatric team includes three AHPRA-registered Specialist Paediatric Dentists: - **Dr Susan Hinckfuss** (BDSc Melb, DCD Melb) - Specialist Paediatric Dentist since 2010; particular expertise in treating children with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, and medical conditions affecting dental care - **Dr Sarah Scott** (BBiomedSci Hons, BDent Syd, DClinDent Paeds) - Specialist Paediatric Dentist at CSSC and Core Dental Berwick - **Dr Angel Babu** (DClinDent PAED Otago) - Specialist Paediatric Dentist at CSSC; also registered in New Zealand; also at Core Dental Caroline Springs and Carrum Downs All three hold the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry in Paediatric Dentistry - the three-year postgraduate specialist qualification required for AHPRA specialist registration. Verify their registrations at ahpra.gov.au. ### What is a paediatric dentist? A paediatric dentist is a dental specialist who has completed postgraduate training - typically three years beyond a general dental degree - focused exclusively on the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents. That additional training gives paediatric dentists clinical skills and child-centred techniques that go well beyond what a general practitioner develops. At Smile Solutions, Dr Susan Hinckfuss leads the paediatric team and brings a gentle, unhurried approach to every young patient. ### At what age should my child first visit the dentist? The recommendation is by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth coming through - whichever is earlier. These early visits do more than check teeth. They help your child build a comfortable, familiar relationship with the dentist, give our specialists a chance to monitor development, and mean any concerns can be caught and addressed before they become bigger problems. Dr Susan Hinckfuss and the team work to make first visits feel relaxed and low-key for both children and parents. ### Does Smile Solutions treat children with special needs? Yes. Dr Susan Hinckfuss has developed genuine expertise in treating children with special needs, including autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, and medical conditions that affect dental care. The team tailors its approach to each child individually, because what works for one child won't necessarily work for another. Where needed, [sleep dentistry](https://www.smilesolutions.com.au/treatments/sleep-dentistry/) is also available to make sure every child can access the care they need comfortably. ### What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)? The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is an Australian Government program that helps families cover the cost of essential dental care for their children. Eligible children aged 0-17 receive up to up to $1,095.60 in dental benefits over a two-calendar-year period (2026 indexed amount). Smile Solutions accepts the CDBS, and the reception team can verify your child's eligibility and process claims on the spot when you book. ### Is my child eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule? Your child may be eligible if they are aged 0-17, receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or another qualifying government payment, and haven't reached the benefit cap within the current two-year period. Eligibility can be confusing to work out on your own, so the reception team at Smile Solutions is happy to check when you call to book. Just ring 13 13 96 and they'll sort it out for you. ### What treatments are covered by the CDBS? The CDBS covers examinations, X-rays, professional cleaning, fissure sealants, fillings, root canal treatment on primary teeth, and extractions. It doesn't cover orthodontic treatment, cosmetic procedures, or hospital-based services. The team can walk you through exactly what your child's entitlements cover during your consultation. ### Are dental X-rays safe for children? Yes. The digital X-ray technology used at Smile Solutions emits very low levels of radiation - considerably less than traditional film X-rays. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary, in line with evidence-based guidelines, and lead aprons are used as a standard precaution. Your child's safety comes first. ### What if my child is anxious about the dentist? Dental anxiety is common in children, and the paediatric team is trained specifically to help. They use age-appropriate language and show-tell-do techniques, and the practice environment is designed with children in mind. For children with more significant anxiety, Smile Solutions offers nitrous oxide (happy gas), oral sedation, and general anaesthesia, so every child can get the care they need without it being a distressing experience. ### When should my child start orthodontic treatment? An orthodontic assessment is worth arranging by age 7-8, once the first adult molars and incisors have come through. Picking up issues like crossbites, crowding, or jaw discrepancies early can make treatment more straightforward later on. Dr Susan Hinckfuss works closely with the [orthodontic team](https://www.smilesolutions.com.au/treatments/braces/) at Smile Solutions, so referrals are coordinated and your child's care stays consistent. ### How can I prevent cavities in my child's teeth? Cavities are largely preventable with consistent habits: brushing twice daily with an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, keeping up with regular check-ups and cleans, and considering fissure sealants on the back teeth. The team provides specific preventive advice for each child they see, because the right guidance varies depending on age, diet, and individual risk factors. ### Does Smile Solutions offer fissure sealants? Yes. Fissure sealants are a protective coating applied to the grooves of the back teeth, where decay most often starts. They're quick, comfortable, and one of the most effective preventive treatments available for children. They're also covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. If you'd like to know whether they're appropriate for your child, the team can advise at your next visit. ### How often should my child visit the dentist? For most children, every six months is the standard recommendation. Dr Susan Hinckfuss may suggest a different schedule if your child has specific risk factors or clinical needs - regular visits allow the team to track dental development, reinforce good habits, and catch anything early before it becomes a more involved problem. --- ### What payment plans are available for children's dental care at Smile Solutions? Smile Solutions offers several payment options to make specialist paediatric care accessible: - **Payright** - Interest-free plans from $150 to $20,000 over 3 to 30 months - **TLC (Treatment Loan Company)** - Personal loans for larger treatment plans - **SuperCare** - Compassionate release of superannuation via the ATO for eligible procedures - **Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)** - Smile Solutions bulk-bills eligible CDBS patients (up to $1,095.60 per child aged 0-17 over two calendar years) - All major private health funds accepted; HICAPS on-site for immediate rebate processing **Book a consultation with Dr Susan Hinckfuss and the paediatric team at Smile Solutions, Level 8 (Collins Street Specialist Centre), Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne CBD.** Call **13 13 96** or visit [smilesolutions.com.au](https://www.smilesolutions.com.au/treatments/paediatric-dentistry/) to make an appointment. ---