Children's Dentistry

Helping your child build a positive relationship with dental care — right here in the heart of Melbourne CBD.

At a Glance

Duration

30–45 min

Visits

1 visit (every 6 months)

Estimated Cost

$200 – $350 (or CDBS eligible)

Recovery

None

Insurance

CDBS or private extras

Location

488 Bourke St, Melbourne CBD

Read detailed information

Why Early Dental Visits Matter

Between school drop-offs, after-care pick-ups, and back-to-back meetings, fitting a dental appointment into your child's schedule can feel like one more impossible task. It is tempting to push it off — especially if nothing seems wrong. But childhood is the period when dental habits, both good and poor, become established for life.

Decay in baby teeth is not something children simply outgrow. Left unaddressed, it can affect how adult teeth develop, lead to difficulty eating and concentrating at school, and create dental anxiety that follows a child well into adulthood. By the time a child complains of a sore tooth, what started as a small issue may require more involved treatment.

For busy CBD professionals, the convenience of having your child seen at a practice near your office — during a lunch break or between appointments — removes one of the biggest barriers to consistent care.

What Children's Dentistry Involves

Children's dentistry covers the oral health needs of infants, children, and adolescents from their first tooth through to their teenage years. The Australian Dental Association recommends a child's first dental visit by the age of two, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. These early visits are short, low-pressure, and designed to familiarise your child with the dental environment before any treatment is needed.

Regular check-ups typically include a gentle examination of your child's teeth, gums, and jaw development. Dr Zamani assesses how adult teeth are tracking, identifies any early signs of decay or alignment concerns, and provides age-appropriate oral hygiene guidance. For younger children, this often means spending time with a parent present, explaining each step in simple terms, and letting the child set the pace.

Preventive treatments such as fissure sealants and fluoride application may be recommended where appropriate. Fissure sealants involve placing a thin protective coating over the grooves of back teeth — the areas most vulnerable to decay in children. These are straightforward procedures that can significantly reduce the likelihood of cavities during the years when brushing technique is still developing.

If treatment is needed, Dr Zamani takes a gradual approach. Children are introduced to instruments and sounds before they are used, reducing surprise and helping them feel in control. The goal is always to resolve the immediate concern while preserving a positive association with dental visits for the future.

Why Parents Choose Dr Zamani

When you bring your child to Dr Zamani, you are seeing the same dentist every visit — not a rotating roster of practitioners. That continuity matters for children. They learn to recognise a familiar face, a familiar room, and a familiar routine, and each visit becomes a little easier than the last.

With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr Zamani has guided many families through the milestones of childhood dental development — from wobbly first teeth to wisdom tooth assessments. She understands that a three-year-old sitting in a dental chair for the first time and a self-conscious fourteen-year-old require entirely different approaches, and she adjusts accordingly.

As a solo practitioner and member of the Australian Dental Association, Dr Zamani provides unhurried appointments where your questions are answered thoroughly, without being passed between team members or feeling rushed out the door.

What to Expect

1

First Visit

A relaxed introduction to the dental environment. Dr Zamani examines your child's teeth and discusses any concerns with you. No surprises, no pressure.

2

Care Plan

If any treatment or preventive measures are recommended, Dr Zamani explains what is involved, why it is suggested, and the costs — so you can make an informed decision.

3

Ongoing Care

Regular check-ups — typically every six months — to monitor development, catch issues early, and reinforce good habits as your child grows.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should I bring my child for their first dental visit?

We recommend bringing your child in for their first visit by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early visits help us monitor development and get your child comfortable with the dental environment. These initial appointments are gentle and focused on building a positive experience.

How do you help children who are nervous about the dentist?

Dr Zamani and the team take a gentle, patient approach with anxious children, using age-appropriate language and a step-by-step introduction to each part of the visit. We allow extra time for younger patients so nothing feels rushed. Our Melbourne CBD practice is designed to feel welcoming, and we find that most children relax quickly once they feel safe and in control.

How often does my child need a dental check-up?

Most children benefit from a check-up and clean every six months. During these visits, we assess tooth development, check for decay, and provide preventive treatments like fluoride application where appropriate. Dr Zamani may recommend more frequent visits if your child has specific concerns that need monitoring.

What does a children's dental check-up include and how long does it take?

A typical appointment takes around 30 to 45 minutes and includes a thorough examination of teeth, gums, and jaw development, a professional clean, and fluoride treatment if needed. We also take X-rays when clinically indicated, usually from around age four or five. You will receive a clear explanation of any findings and a plan for any follow-up treatment.

Are fissure sealants recommended for children, and what do they cost?

Fissure sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the grooves of back teeth, which are especially prone to decay in children. They are a straightforward preventive measure that can be applied during a regular visit. Costs vary depending on the number of teeth treated, and some items may be partially covered under your private health fund or the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.

Does my child qualify for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is a Medicare program that provides eligible children aged 0 to 17 with up to $1,095 in dental benefits over a two-year period. Eligibility is linked to receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A or certain government payments. We can check your child's eligibility at reception and bulk bill under the scheme for covered services.

What should I do if my child knocks out or chips a tooth?

For a knocked-out baby tooth, keep the area clean and contact us promptly but do not try to replant it. For a knocked-out adult tooth, handle it by the crown, keep it moist in milk or saline, and come to our Melbourne CBD practice as soon as possible — ideally within 30 minutes. For chips or fractures, save any fragments and call us to arrange an urgent appointment.

Can I stay with my child during their appointment?

Yes, parents are welcome to stay with their child throughout the appointment. For younger children especially, having a parent nearby helps them feel secure. As children grow more confident over time, some prefer a degree of independence during their visits, and we are happy to follow your family's preference.

Book Your Child's Appointment

Located on Level 6, 488 Bourke Street — a short walk from Parliament and Flagstaff stations. Convenient for parents working in the CBD.

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