Images are included for general illustration and do not establish or predict an individual treatment outcome.
General care and specialist referral
Many children have their routine dental care with a general dentist. Some may benefit from assessment by a registered specialist paediatric dentist when their dental, medical or support needs are more complex. A referral is based on the individual child rather than age alone.
The term paediatric dentist refers to a recognised dental specialty. Providing dental care to children does not, by itself, mean a practitioner holds specialist registration. If specialist care is recommended, ask who the referral is to and what the assessment is intended to clarify.
What to discuss with the referring dentist
Ask which findings prompted the referral, whether there is anything that needs attention before the specialist appointment, and what records should accompany it. Explain any communication, sensory or medical needs that may affect the consultation.
A referral does not predetermine treatment. The receiving practitioner will assess your child and discuss options. These may include preventive measures, monitoring or treatment, depending on the findings. Ask about the likely consequences of delaying or declining care.
Planning treatment and follow-up
If a procedure is recommended, ask about its benefits, limitations and risks, and whether another approach could meet the same need. If sedation or hospital care is proposed, its separate assessment, risks and recovery requirements should be explained.
Clarify who will provide ongoing reviews and everyday dental care after the referral. Contact Sydney CBD Dentistry to discuss an assessment and current referral arrangements. For invasive treatment, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified dental practitioner.
Related articles
- Choosing Dental Care for Your Child
- Helping a Child Who Feels Anxious About Dental Visits
- Your Child’s First Dental Visits
This article provides general information only. An examination is needed to assess your circumstances and suitability for treatment. All dental treatment carries risks, and results vary between individuals.