Question 1

What is the difference between a dentist and a paediatric dentist?

Accepted Answer

A paediatric dentist is a dentist who specialises in caring for infants, children, and teens. They have advanced training, postgraduate degrees and are part of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons.

Unlike general dentists, paediatric dentists have extra training in child development, behaviour management, and the unique dental needs of growing teeth.

At Kidz Teeth, our children dentists are experts in making every visit gentle, fun, and stress-free.

Question 2

Why should I take my child to a paediatric dentist rather than a general dentist?

Accepted Answer

A pediatric dentist is trained specifically to work with children, understanding how to make them feel comfortable and confident in the dental chair.

They focus on prevention, early intervention, and tailored kids dental treatments, helping little smiles grow strong and healthy.

Kidz Teeth provides a playful, compassionate environment designed just for kids.

Question 3

What are common paediatric dental issues that Kidz Teeth deal with?

Accepted Answer

At Kidz Teeth, our team of children dentists commonly treats:
 • Tooth decay and cavities
 • Early orthodontic concerns(https://www.kidzteeth.co.nz/paediatric-dentistry)
 • Toothaches and dental emergencies(https://www.kidzteeth.co.nz/emergency-care)
 • Gum problems and teething issues
 • Preventive care (https://www.kidzteeth.co.nz/prevention-and-restoration)for healthy growth

We provide both routine check-ups and restorative care to keep your child’s smile healthy.

Question 4

Is paediatric dental care free for kids in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in New Zealand dental care is free for children under 18 through the public dental service.

At Kidz Teeth, we offer private care for children which includes specialist kids dental treatments and preventive programs for growing smiles. Most health insurances will cover this treatment, and ACC will help subsidise trauma care.

Question 5

At what age should kids first see a dentist?

Accepted Answer

Kidz Teeth, together with the Australasian Academy of Paediatric Dentists recommend children have their first dental visit around their first birthday. Early dental visits are an important step in promoting lifelong oral health.

This initial visit provides parents with valuable anticipatory guidance, covering topics such as: 
​
 • Feeding practices 
 • Thumb or dummy sucking habits 
 • Early oral hygiene techniques 
​​
We will also assess your child’s individual risk factors for developing tooth decay. Even at this early stage, we tailor preventive strategies to suit your child’s specific needs, aiming to reduce their long-term risk of dental problems.

Starting dental care early builds a positive foundation for future dental visits.

Question 6

Are Baby Teeth Important?

Accepted Answer

While primary (baby) teeth play a key role in aesthetics, speech, and function, their importance extends far beyond these early developmental milestones. A healthy primary dentition is crucial for guiding the proper eruption and alignment of permanent teeth.
 
Premature loss of baby teeth, often due to advanced tooth decay, can disrupt this natural process.
 
Preventing dental crowding and misalignment caused by early tooth loss is a core focus. Through early intervention and tailored treatment, we are able to support long-term oral health and optimal dental development.

Question 7

What Causes Toothaches

Accepted Answer

Toothache is one of the most common dental concerns in children. It may be caused by: 
​
 • Tooth decay (the most common cause) 
 • Chalky teeth (enamel hypomineralisation) 
 • Tooth fractures 
 • Dental trauma 
​
Occasionally, pain may be due to food trapped between teeth, especially in younger children. Gently cleaning the area with a soft toothbrush or using dental floss may help. If discomfort persists, we recommend scheduling an appointment for a thorough assessment.

Question 8

When to Seek Urgent Care

Accepted Answer

Seek urgent care with your local hospital if your child has symptoms such as: 
​
 • Throbbing pain 
 • Facial swelling 
 • Fever 
 • General unwellness (malaise) 
​
These signs may indicate a spreading dental infection that requires immediate attention. After-hours emergencies can be managed through our local hospital emergency department – Starship Hospital; Middlemore Hospital .

Question 9

Why has the tooth changed colour after an accident?

Accepted Answer

Grey or Dark Teeth:

After an injury, a tooth may turn grey or dark. This is usually from a small amount of bleeding inside the tooth. In many cases, the colour improves on its own, but this can take up to 6 months.
​
Cloudy or Yellow Teeth:

If the tooth becomes lighter but looks cloudy or yellow, it often means the nerve inside has naturally closed off. This is usually nothing to worry about, and no treatment is needed unless other problems develop.
​
Pink Teeth:

A tooth that looks pink may be breaking down from the inside. This is less common but important to check. Your dentist will need to monitor it closely.

Question 10

When to See the Dentist For Discoloured Tooth

Accepted Answer

If the discoloured tooth: 
Stays dark but causes no pain or swelling, it can usually be left in place and monitored regularly by your dentist. 
Shows signs of infection (such as pain, swelling, or a small lump on the gum above the tooth), this may indicate an abscess, and extraction is recommended to prevent damage to the developing adult tooth underneath.

Question 11

What Should Parents Do When a Tooth Discolours?

Accepted Answer

Keep a close eye on the colour and condition of the injured tooth
1. Attend regular dental check-ups for monitoring.
2. Contact your dentist if your child develops pain, swelling, fever, or any gum changes.
3. If your child has had an injury, please don’t wait - contact us immediately to register with ACC and for the best possible outcome.
4. Kidz Teeth is a registered ACC specialist practice to treat urgent children under general anaesthesia.

Prevention &
Restoration

Preventative Children's Dentist Treatments

Healthy Smiles Start with Prevention

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a dentist and a paediatric dentist?

Why should I take my child to a paediatric dentist rather than a general dentist?

What are common paediatric dental issues that Kidz Teeth deal with?

Is paediatric dental care free for kids in New Zealand?

At what age should kids first see a dentist?

Are Baby Teeth Important?

What Causes Toothaches

When to Seek Urgent Care

Why has the tooth changed colour after an accident?

When to See the Dentist For Discoloured Tooth

What Should Parents Do When a Tooth Discolours?

Treating Cavities in Baby Teeth

Preventative and Restoration Treatments

Helpful Information

Helpful Links

Prevention & Restoration

Preventative Children's Dentist Treatments

Healthy Smiles Start with Prevention

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a dentist and a paediatric dentist?

Why should I take my child to a paediatric dentist rather than a general dentist?

What are common paediatric dental issues that Kidz Teeth deal with?

Is paediatric dental care free for kids in New Zealand?

At what age should kids first see a dentist?

Are Baby Teeth Important?

What Causes Toothaches

When to Seek Urgent Care

Why has the tooth changed colour after an accident?

When to See the Dentist For Discoloured Tooth

What Should Parents Do When a Tooth Discolours?

Treating Cavities in Baby Teeth

Preventative and Restoration Treatments

Helpful Information

Helpful Links

Prevention &
Restoration