Eversmile Dental Is Here to Help
When Your Child Needs a Dentist in Bunbury
Dental Concerns With Your Child? Let’s Take a Look
Common Reasons Kids May Need to See a Dentist
- Tooth Pain
Tooth pain in children can stem from decay, injury, or an emerging infection, even if they don’t always mention it. A gentle dental check can help identify the issue and guide the next steps.
- Visible Decay
Discoloured spots, ranging from brown to black or white, can indicate early tooth decay. Checking in early may allow for simpler care that keeps your child’s teeth comfortable and functioning well as they grow.
- Dental Injury
Falls and knocks to the mouth can cause chipped, loose, or damaged teeth. Even if the injury seems minor, having it examined can help reduce discomfort and prevent complications as the tooth develops.
- Gum Swelling
Swollen or tender gums may be linked to poor brushing habits, the eruption of new teeth, or early inflammation. A checkup provides parents with helpful insight into what’s happening and whether any follow-up care might be necessary.
How We Help Children Maintain Strong, Healthy Teeth
We Accept CDBS—Check Your Child’s Eligibility Now
Book a visit today to see if your child qualifies for bulk-billed dental care under the CDBS. No referral is needed; just bring your Medicare details.
Our Work, Our Patients’ Happy, Healthy Smiles
*These images display actual patients of our clinic. Every case is different, and treatment outcomes can vary according to individual conditions and needs.
Why Bunbury Families Choose Us for Their Kids’ Smiles
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- We’re part of the Bunbury community, and many of us are parents ourselves. That means we understand local families, schools, and what makes kids feel safe and supported. Our team is here for the long haul. You can count on consistency, familiarity, and care from people who genuinely care about your child’s well-being.
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- Serving Since 2006
- For nearly 20 years, we’ve cared for Bunbury kids with kindness, patience, and clinical know-how. Generations of local families have grown up in our chairs, and some of those kids now bring in children of their own. We’re proud of that trust, and we work hard to earn it at every visit.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- Children’s dentistry is about more than teeth—it’s about building confidence and healthy habits early on. We make dental visits fun, friendly, and judgement-free. Whether your child is chatty or shy, nervous or fearless, we tailor every appointment to them. Plus, we offer checkups for the whole family in one spot—easy and convenient.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- No rushed appointments. No scary tools. Just plenty of time, gentle explanations, and a whole lot of patience. We know every child is different, and every parent wants what’s right for their child. That’s why we listen first, explain clearly, and work with you to help create a positive experience from the very start.
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- Driven by Our Values
- Honesty, integrity, and a genuine love for helping kids—that’s what drives our team. There’s no upselling or scare tactics, just thoughtful, age-appropriate care from people you can trust. We care for your child like we’d care for our own, always focused on comfort, safety, and building trust for the long term.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- Our kid-friendly technology helps make visits smoother and more comfortable. From gentle cleaning tools like EMS Airflow to low-radiation imaging and intraoral scanners, we use advanced tech to diagnose and care for young smiles with precision. All this while keeping things relaxed and simple for kids. Better tools mean better care, less stress, and more smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child first see a dentist?
The Australian Dental Association recommends that children visit a dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever happens first.
Early check-ups help monitor the development of teeth and jaws, allowing for discussions about feeding habits, brushing, and diet. These appointments also give parents a chancr to ask questions and receive tailored advice.
Some children may only need a check-up once a year. Others, especially those at higher risk of tooth decay, may benefit from more frequent visits. These early assessments can help detect problems before they cause pain or infection.
At Eversmile Dental, we welcome families from Bunbury and nearby suburbs. We aim to make dental care a familiar part of your child’s routine from the very start.
What happens at a child’s first dental visit?
The first dental visit is usually simple and focused on helping your child feel at ease. At Eversmile Dental, we tailor the appointment to suit your child’s age and needs.
Here’s what may be included:
- A gentle oral check-up:
The dentist will look at your child’s teeth, gums, and bite. We check for signs of decay, gum health, and how the teeth and jaws are growing. - Discussion about oral hygiene:
We’ll talk to you about toothbrushing techniques, fluoride toothpaste, and how to keep your child’s teeth clean at home. - Assessment of risk factors:
We may discuss feeding patterns, dummy use, thumb sucking, or diet choices that can influence your child’s oral health. - Advice on growth and development:
We look at how your child’s teeth are erupting and discuss any early concerns with jaw growth or bite alignment. - Nutrition and habit advice:
We offer guidance on healthy eating and drinking, including how to reduce the number of times sugary snacks and drinks are consumed each day. - Time for your questions:
You’re welcome to ask about teething, tooth eruption timing, brushing routines, and anything else related to your child’s oral care.
We aim to have a calm and positive experience. For very young or shy children, the appointment might focus more on building familiarity with the dental setting. Over time, this helps your child feel more confident about regular check-ups.
What signs suggest my child may need to see a dentist sooner?
Some children may need to see a dentist before their first routine check-up. If you notice any of the signs below, it may be time to book a visit:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity:
Children may show discomfort by avoiding certain foods, pointing to their mouths, or saying a tooth hurts. This may suggest early decay or another issue affecting the tooth. - Spots or stains on the teeth:
White, brown, or black patches on baby teeth can be an early sign of enamel changes or tooth decay. These should be checked to understand what’s happening. - Red, swollen, or bleeding gums:
Inflammation or bleeding during brushing may indicate a problem with the gums. This could be due to plaque buildup or difficulty cleaning certain areas. - Ongoing bad breath:
Bad breath that doesn’t go away after brushing may indicate that food is getting trapped or decay is present. - Avoiding certain foods or chewing on one side:
If your child has changed their eating habits, this may be a sign they’re experiencing discomfort when biting or chewing. - Mouth breathing or loud snoring:
Breathing mainly through the mouth or noisy breathing during sleep can sometimes be related to how the jaws or airways are developing. A dental check can help identify whether oral factors are involved. - Late or early tooth changes:
If baby teeth haven’t come in by 12–18 months or adult teeth are delayed, it can be helpful to have the mouth assessed. Some children may need monitoring as they grow. - Habits like thumb sucking or dummy use past age three:
These habits may affect how the teeth and jaws grow. A dentist can advise on ways to reduce their impact.
If you notice any of these signs, bringing your child in for a visit can help you understand what’s going on and what options are available.
Can I get help if I can’t afford dental treatment for my child?
Yes. At Eversmile Dental, we accept government-supported programs that may help reduce costs for eligible families.
- Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
This program is available to children aged 0 to 17 who are eligible for Medicare and receive a government payment such as Family Tax Benefit Part A at any point during the calendar year. It provides up to $1,132 over two calendar years for a range of basic dental services. We’ll provide more details in the next section. - Public dental services
Eligible children may access free dental care through WA’s public dental system. Treatment is usually offered through school dental services or community dental clinics. Availability may vary, and some locations have wait times. - Payment support and claiming options
We offer same-day claiming through HICAPS for eligible government programs. If you need help understanding what your child may qualify for, our team can explain the available support clearly.
If the cost of care is a concern, please contact us. We’re happy to talk through the available pathways to make dental care easier for your family to manage.
Is my child eligible for free dental care?
Your child may be eligible for free dental care through public dental services or the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS).
- Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
Children may be eligible for the CDBS if they meet the following criteria:- They are eligible for Medicare.
- They are between 0 and 17 years old at any point during the calendar year.
- They receive a government payment, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A, during the year.
- Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
Each calendar year, Services Australia reviews eligibility. Families who qualify are notified by post or through their MyGov account.
You do not need to bring this letter to your appointment, but our reception team can assist with checking your child’s eligibility if needed.
- Public dental services in Western Australia
Children who are eligible for Medicare may access free dental care through WA’s public dental system. School dental clinics or community dental centres generally provide these services. Availability depends on the local area, and waiting times may apply.
If you need help understanding what support may be available, please contact Eversmile Dental. Our team is here to assist you.
Is dental care for children covered by health funds?
Some families choose private dental plans or memberships to help with the cost of their child’s dental care. These are usually arranged through a provider and may reduce the amount you need to pay for certain services.
At Eversmile Dental:
- We are recognised by several major providers.
Our clinic is a preferred provider with HBF Member Plus, BUPA Members First, and Medibank Members’ Choice. If you have a plan with one of these groups, you may pay less for some dental services. - We offer same-day claiming through HICAPS.
Our team can process eligible claims at the time of your appointment. This can help reduce how much you need to pay on the day. - Inclusions and limits vary.
The type of service, fees, and how much is paid for your appointment depend on your provider and the specific plan you are on. It’s a good idea to check directly with your provider before your visit.
If you need help understanding how this works, our team is happy to explain the process in simple terms when you book or arrive for your appointment.
Can rotten teeth be managed without going to the dentist?
In most cases, tooth decay requires professional dental care. While early enamel changes may be managed with dietary and hygiene changes, active decay generally needs intervention to prevent further damage.
Here’s what parents should know:
- Early signs are not always easy to see.
Tooth decay may begin as a white spot on the enamel. Without a dental check-up, this can be difficult to notice. At this stage, it may be possible to manage the area with changes to diet, oral hygiene, and fluoride use. - Decay can progress quickly in baby teeth.
The outer layer of baby teeth is thinner than that of adult teeth. This means that decay can spread faster and affect deeper layers of the tooth in a shorter period. - Brushing and diet changes can’t remove decay.
Good home care is important, but once decay has started, professional treatment is often necessary. Without it, the decay may continue and affect the health of the tooth and nearby tissues. - Dental pain may affect sleep, eating, and daily comfort.
If decay reaches the deeper part of the tooth, it may lead to pain or swelling. This can impact your child’s ability to eat, concentrate, or sleep comfortably. - Dental visits help identify decay early.
Regular check-ups allow the dentist to find early changes and provide guidance. The sooner a concern is found, the simpler the treatment may be.
If you see any changes in the colour or shape of your child’s teeth or if they are showing signs of discomfort, it’s a good idea to book a dental visit.
What if my child is anxious about visiting the dentist?
It’s not uncommon for children to feel uneasy before a dental appointment. This may be due to unfamiliar surroundings, a previous negative experience, or simply uncertainty about what to expect.
At Eversmile Dental, we recognise that trust and comfort are essential parts of children’s dental care.
Here’s how we support children who feel anxious:
- We take a gradual and supportive approach.
Some children begin by simply meeting the dentist and becoming familiar with the environment. There is no pressure to undergo treatment straight away. We move at a pace that suits your child. - We use clear, age-appropriate communication.
Our team explains each step using language that children can understand. When appropriate, children are invited to explore the room, view instruments, or ask questions to feel more involved. - We encourage the presence of a parent or carer.
A familiar face nearby can be very comforting. Parents and carers are welcome to stay in the room during the appointment. - We offer additional support for those who need it.
For children with high levels of anxiety or sensory sensitivities, we may discuss options such as nitrous oxide (happy gas), oral medication to reduce tension, or treatment under general anaesthesia. These are only considered after careful discussion with parents. - We aim to create positive early experiences.
By making appointments calm and respectful, our Bunbury dental team helps children feel more confident about returning for future visits.
If your child feels nervous about attending, please let us know when booking. We’re here to support their well-being and make dental care feel more approachable.
