School holidays are the perfect time to tick off a few health appointments - without the usual weekday rush. If your little one is due for their first trip to the dentist, a bit of gentle preparation can make all the difference.

Here are a few common “don’ts” and what you might like to do instead - based on what we’ve seen work really well for families at our dental clinic here in Melbourne.

1. Don’t wait until the day to bring it up

Instead: Start talking about it a few days ahead, in a casual and positive way. You might like to read a picture book about the dentist, or let them role-play with a toy dental kit. The goal is to help them feel curious and confident - not caught off guard.

2. Don’t say “It won’t hurt”

Instead: Use reassuring but neutral language. If they ask questions, try something like:

"It might feel a little funny, but the dentist will be very gentle and kind."

Sometimes, saying “it won’t hurt” actually introduces the idea of pain.

3. Don’t rush through the appointment

Instead: Leave yourself extra time to arrive early and settle in. Let your child explore the waiting room and meet the staff. A calm, unhurried atmosphere helps everyone feel more at ease.

4. Don’t dismiss their fear

Instead: If they’re feeling unsure, let them know that’s okay. A simple, “It’s normal to feel a bit nervous, we’re going to do this together,” can go a long way in building trust.

5. Don’t offer food treats as a reward

Instead: Plan something fun to look forward to afterward. It could be a trip to the park, picking out a new library book, or choosing the bedtime story. Non-food rewards help keep the focus on the visit itself - not the treat at the end.

6. Don’t show your own stress

Instead: Stay calm and relaxed. Kids are incredibly tuned in to their parents’ feelings, so if you’re confident and casual, they’ll pick up on that too.

Kid-friendly dentists in Melbourne

At Albert Park Dental, we love seeing young patients grow into confident dental visitors. If you’re looking for a Melbourne family dentist to care for little smiles, especially during the busy school holidays - we’d love to welcome you!

Whether it’s their very first appointment or just their first in a while, we’re here to make the experience as smooth and gentle as possible. Our friendly team takes the time to make children feel welcome, safe, and involved in their care. We understand that every child is different — and we tailor our approach to suit their pace and comfort.

What should I expect during our first visit?

We like to keep things light and fun at the first appointment for your child. Typically we will offer them a ride in the chair, coax them to open wide (like a lion roaring) and count their teeth. We also review brushing habits, diet and keep an eye on the development of their jaws. If you have a child who takes a while to warm up don’t worry! We know that some children will hop straight in the chair and others will need a few visits to feel comfortable. We will be tailoring your visit to your child's temperament. At the end of the visit your child will also receive a show bag filled with goodies to remember us by.

Don’t Forget: You Might Be Eligible for Free Kids Dental!

If your child is eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), you could access up to $1,132 in free dental care every 2 years.

• Bulk-billed under Medicare, meaning no out-of-pocket costs.
• Covers check-ups, cleans, X-rays, fillings & more
• Available for eligible children aged 0–17

To check if your child is eligible, visit Services Australia or get in touch with us — we’re happy to help.

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