Great dental habits start early
Welcoming babies, toddlers, kids and teens to our Ashgrove practice — where every visit feels like a win.
What to expect
A warm welcome
From the moment you walk in, our team is ready to make your child feel at ease. We’ll get to know them before we even look at their teeth.
A gentle look around
We use a tell-show-do approach — we explain what we’re doing, show them the tools, and then gently get to work.
A clean and check
We check that teeth and gums are developing well and do a gentle clean if your child is ready. For very young children, a short look and a quick chat with parents is perfectly fine.
X-rays if needed
We only take X-rays when clinically necessary, and we’ll always explain why before we do.
A chat about home care
We’ll give you practical, age-specific advice on brushing, diet, and habits — without the lecture.
A very important reward
Every child leaves with a sticker. Non-negotiable.

At Stewart Road Dental, we genuinely love treating kids. Our Oral Health Therapist, Mavis Liaw, has a special interest in children’s dentistry and brings warmth, patience, and a whole lot of fun to every appointment.
We know a child’s first few dental visits shape how they feel about oral health for the rest of their life — so we take the time to go at your child’s pace, explaining, showing, and never rushing. Whether your little one is coming in for their very first check-up or you’ve got a nervous 8-year-old who needs a gentle approach, you’re in the right place.
Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
Eligible children aged 0–17 may receive up to $1,158 in bulk-billed dental treatment over two consecutive calendar years.
We accept CDBS patients and can check eligibility at your child’s first visit.
Ages we see
From 12 months
First tooth check and parent guidance — or as soon as the first tooth appears, whichever comes first. Early visits are about familiarisation, not treatment.
2–5 years
6-monthly check-ups to monitor development, establish good habits, and catch early issues with baby teeth — which hold space for adult teeth.
6–12 years
As adult teeth come through, we monitor spacing and bite development, and protect new molars with fissure sealants.
Teens
Wisdom teeth monitoring, custom sports mouthguards, and keeping hygiene on track through the high school years.
We get it — dental anxiety is real
Some children have had a difficult experience elsewhere. Some have never been and have already decided they hate the dentist. Some just need more time and reassurance.
We’re experienced in working with children who need a slower, gentler approach. We never force, never rush, and never make a child feel bad for being nervous. Sometimes the first appointment is just a chat and a look around — that’s completely fine. If your child has significant anxiety or additional needs, please mention this when you book so we can set aside extra time and prepare our team.

Meet Mavis

Mavis is our Oral Health Therapist with a special interest in paediatric dentistry. She has a natural ability to connect with children of all ages — from curious toddlers to eye-rolling teenagers — and is committed to making every visit a positive one.
“My favourite part of this job is the transformation — a nervous little one walks through the door, and a giggling one walks out. That moment never gets old.”
Children’s Dentistry FAQs
How old should my child be for their first dental visit?
We recommend bringing children in from 12 months, or when their first tooth appears. Early visits are low-key and mostly about getting comfortable with the environment.
Do you bulk bill under the CDBS?
Yes. Eligible children aged 0–17 can access up to $1,158 in bulk-billed dental care over two years. We’ll check eligibility at your first visit.
What if my child won’t open their mouth?
Completely normal. We never force it. Sometimes the first visit is just a look and a friendly chat — we build from there at their pace.
Are baby teeth really that important?
Absolutely. Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth, help children eat and speak properly, and decay in baby teeth can affect adult teeth developing underneath.
My child is really anxious. Can you still help?
Yes. Please let us know when booking. We have experience with anxious children and will take extra time and use a gentle, step-by-step approach. In some cases, we will recommend referral to a specialising paediatric dentist.
Do you offer happy gas (nitrous oxide)?
We prefer a gentle, trust-based approach for our younger patients and find that most children do really well without it. In cases where sedation is clinically recommended, we’ll refer your child to a specialising paediatric dentist to ensure they receive the most appropriate care.
What should I do if my child chips or knocks out a tooth?
Call us immediately on (07) 3366 1213. For a knocked-out adult tooth, keep it moist (preferably in milk) and come in as quickly as possible.
Let’s give your child a great start
Good dental habits built in childhood last a lifetime. Our team is here to make the journey easy — for your child, and for you.
