Dental Care for Kids – The way it should be
Everyone is an individual, and every dental plan is tailored to fit both you and your child’s needs. Our job is to do everything we can to help your child through any fears or discomfort they have at the dentist.
Children are not little adults, and visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience. Often, there is a need for Sedation to help overcome their fears, and make it pleasant again. For younger children, we use nitrous oxide sedation – also called ‘happy gas’, and for teenagers/young adults – IV sedation may be more suitable.
Kids Dental is currently available from two locations, with Dr Lorraine Lim at Southern Care Dental in Auckland, and Nelson Dental Centre in Nelson.
Initial Appointment
The initial appointment takes approximately 30 minutes, and will include any xrays/photos taken to determine what your child needs to have a healthy mouth and a smile as nature intended. This appointment is essential prior to doing any treatment, as many children who have had a negative experience at the dentist prior to seeing us need to feel reassured and safe with our team.
At this appointment, we will discuss what your child needs, and how to stage the next appointments – and whether sedation is recommended.
Is my child entitled to FREE dental services?
a) If your teenager is between year 9 (approximately 13 yrs old) and under 18 – and a NZ resident/citizen, then this consultation is free of charge.
They will also be entitled to the following services:
One free check-up every year
Cleaning your teeth once a year
Fillings due to decay
Extraction of teeth due to decay or an abscess, including wisdom teeth infection
Root canals (not ACC related)
b) your child has a referral from SDS (School Dental services) from their school dental nurse
c) ACC related – your child/teenager has had an accident and damaged their teeth
Please note: There is a cost for the consultation/xrays if your child does not meet the above criteria. The cost for sedation is not covered by any public funding.