Appointments at Kids’ Smile Lab
What to expect at your initial appointment
Your consultation will include a comprehensive dental examination, a discussion of your child's dental history, and any necessary diagnostic radiographs (x-rays). Dr Caitlin will talk through her findings with you and recommend a tailored treatment plan suited to your child's needs, age, and level of comfort.
Where treatment is required, we will discuss the options available, which may include:
In-chair treatment – standard care performed while your child is awake, often with behaviour-guidance techniques suited to children.
In-chair with nitrous oxide sedation – commonly known as happy gas, this mild sedative is inhaled through a mask to help your child feel relaxed and comfortable during treatment.
Hospital-based treatment under general anaesthetic – recommended for more extensive treatment needs, very young children, or children with high anxiety, performed in a hospital setting with a specialist anaesthetist.
Dr Caitlin will recommend the most appropriate option based on your child's individual assessment.
Please note that treatment is not routinely carried out during a consultation appointment. This gives you time to consider the recommended treatment options and choose a time that suits your child, while also allowing us to prepare properly so that any treatment can be carried out calmly and efficiently. Your understanding is appreciated.
Attendance Requirements
A parent or legal guardian must be present for the entire appointment, as consent is required for examination and any treatment.
We kindly ask that siblings do not attend the appointment, so that we can give your child our full attention in a calm, focused environment.
Fees & Payments
We strive to be transparent regarding all treatment costs.
Your initial consultation fee is $350 and includes all necessary x-rays and tests required on the day. Payment is required at the completion of your appointment.
Running on time
We work hard to run on time, as we know a busy waiting room can add to a child's anxiety. That said, emergencies or complications can occasionally cause delays. If this happens, our staff will keep you updated every step of the way.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to reschedule the appointment, please provide at least 48 hours notice. A cancellation fee may apply if adequate notice is not given.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should my child see a Specialist Paediatric Dentist?
Dental treatment for children, like many clinical areas in dentistry, falls within the scope of the general dentist and oral health therapist. Many children will not need to see a specialist for their routine dental care.
Paediatric Dentistry is a board recognised specialty in Australia which requires an additional 3 years of tertiary training in both community and hospital settings. Specialist Paediatric Dentists are equipped to assess and manage complex restorative needs, young children, dental trauma, dental anomalies such as extra or missing teeth, and children with complex medical needs and neurodevelopmental differences. Dr Caitlin is able to provide tailored dental care for your child using gentle behaviour management techniques, happy gas sedation and treatment under general anaesthetic in hospital.
Your child may be referred to a specialist paediatric dentist by their general dental practitioner, another dental specialist such as an orthodontist, or their medical team. Communicating and collaborating with your child’s dental, medical and allied health team is part of specialist care. Whilst referral is a common pathway, no referral is necessary and you are invited to make an enquiry directly to Kids’ Smile Lab.
I live in a regional area, do you provide options for consultations remotely?
We believe that all children should be able to access specialist dental care when required, regardless of where they live. That is why we offer flexible consultation options, with video conferencing and flexible appointment arrangements. Prior to your consultation appointment we will communicate with you and your child’s dental practitioner to gather as much clinical information as possible.
Can I claim a rebate for with my private health?
If you have private health insurance with Extras Cover, you may be eligible for a rebate. We offer on-the-spot claiming for most health funds.
Can I claim Medicare’s Child Dental Benefit Scheme for my child’s appointment?
Some families are eligible for the Medicare Child Dental Benefit Scheme (CDBS). This entitles eligible families to claim a rebate for some item codes. Not all procedures are covered by the CDBS and the scheme does not cover treatment provided in hospital.
Please note, as a specialist practice we do not bulk bill. If you are eligible for the CDBS you will need to pay for the appointment in full on the day and will be able to claim a rebate for included items by submitting your receipt to Medicare following. Our friendly reception staff will be able to guide you in how to submit your claim.
KIDS’ SMILE LAB
Dental Care for Kids on the Sunshine Coast
At Kids’ Smile Lab we believe that specialist level care means that your child should see their specialist at each appointment. When you make an appointment at Kids’ Smile Lab, you can be assured that your child will see Dr Caitlin.
We look forward to meeting your child and partnering with you in their dental journey!