Sydney Smile Centre in Pagewood offers gentle paediatric dentistry for children of all ages. We bulk-bill eligible children aged 0 to 17 under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), covering up to $1,095 in dental treatment over two calendar years. Call 02 9349 2387 to book your child’s appointment.
Starting dental visits early helps children develop healthy habits and allows your dentist to identify any concerns before they become bigger problems. The Australian Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
What Is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The CDBS is a Medicare program that provides up to $1,095 in dental benefits for eligible children aged 0 to 17 over a two-year calendar period. It covers a range of basic dental services including:
- Dental examinations and X-rays
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Fissure sealants
- Dental fillings
- Root canal treatment on baby teeth
- Tooth extractions
The CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment, cosmetic procedures or services provided in a hospital. Sydney Smile Centre bulk-bills the CDBS directly — meaning there is no out-of-pocket cost for covered services if your child is eligible.
Is My Child Eligible for the CDBS?
Your child may be eligible if they are:
- Aged 0 to 17 at any point during the calendar year
- Eligible for Medicare
- Part of a family receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A, or certain government payments (such as Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY or Disability Support Pension)
You can check your child’s eligibility and remaining balance by calling Medicare on 132 011, logging into your MyGov account, or contacting the team at Sydney Smile Centre and we can verify it for you.
What Happens at a Child’s Dental Check-Up?
Dr Ana Maria Garcia has a gentle, caring approach with young patients. A typical children’s dental visit at Sydney Smile Centre includes:
- Examination: Checking teeth, gums and jaw development
- Cleaning: Professional removal of plaque and tartar
- X-rays: If needed, to check for hidden decay or monitor development
- Fluoride treatment: To strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities
- Fissure sealants: Protective coatings applied to the grooves of back teeth to prevent decay
- Education: Age-appropriate brushing and flossing guidance for your child
Tips for Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Making the first visit a positive experience sets the foundation for a lifetime of good dental health:
- Use positive language — avoid words like “pain”, “needle” or “drill”
- Read books about visiting the dentist beforehand
- Bring a favourite toy or comfort item
- Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is usually well-rested and not hungry
- Stay calm — children pick up on parental anxiety
Common Children’s Dental Issues
- Tooth decay: The most common chronic childhood disease in Australia. Early detection at regular check-ups prevents progression.
- Thumb sucking: Normal in infants but should ideally stop by age 4 to avoid affecting bite development.
- Early tooth loss: Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, a space maintainer may be recommended.
- Dental anxiety: Dr Garcia works at a child’s pace and uses a gentle approach to build trust and confidence.
Children’s Dentistry at Sydney Smile Centre Pagewood
Our family-friendly practice is at Shop 1, 16 Maroubra Road, Pagewood NSW 2035. We serve families from Maroubra, Mascot, Botany, Kensington, Kingsford, Randwick, Coogee and Eastgardens. Free parking via Glanfield Street. Disabled access available.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child first see a dentist?
The Australian Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early visits help identify potential issues and establish a positive relationship with dental care.
How often should children see the dentist?
Most children should have a dental check-up every six months. Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if your child has a higher risk of decay or other dental concerns.
Does the CDBS cover dental cleaning for children?
Yes. Professional dental cleaning (scale and clean) is covered under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule for eligible children. Sydney Smile Centre bulk-bills the CDBS directly with no out-of-pocket cost for covered services.
What if my child is nervous about the dentist?
Dr Ana Maria Garcia has a gentle, child-friendly approach and works at each child’s pace to build trust. We encourage parents to stay in the treatment room and to use positive language when discussing dental visits. Most children become comfortable after one or two visits.
Are fissure sealants worth it for children?
Yes. Fissure sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where most childhood cavities develop. They are painless to apply, covered by the CDBS, and can prevent cavities for several years.
Does Sydney Smile Centre treat babies and toddlers?
Yes. We welcome patients from birth. Early dental visits for babies and toddlers focus on checking gum and tooth development, providing parents with oral hygiene guidance, and monitoring for early signs of decay.
