Got questions?

FAQs

We know visiting the dentist can bring up plenty of questions — here’s everything you need to know to help your child feel confident and cared for.

Nervous Children

How can I communicate my child's fears to my dentist?
Be open and honest with your dentist about your child's fears and anxieties. Discuss specific triggers and past experiences. Our team will listen to your concerns and work with you to create a comfortable experience for your child.
What should I expect during my child's first visit if they have dental anxiety?
During your child's first visit, our whole team will take extra time to make them feel comfortable. Their dentist may start with a simple conversation away from the dental chair, explain procedures thoroughly in a child-friendly manner, and allow them to set the pace for the appointment. We also offer familiarisation visits. If you believe your child would benefit from this, please get in touch to request a suitable visit time.
My child is scared of the dentist. Can you help?

Absolutely, this is something we see often and we're experienced at helping nervous children feel safe and comfortable. We go at your child's pace and never rush treatment.

What techniques do you use to help anxious children?

We use gentle, child-friendly language, "tell-show-do" explanations, distraction techniques, and plenty of encouragement and praise throughout the visit.

Do you offer sedation for very anxious children?
Yes, we offer inhalation sedation (Happy Gas) and intravenous (IV) sedation at Dental Works Kids. Please speak to a member of our team to discuss the suitability of these options for your child.
What can I do at home to prepare my nervous child?

Talk about the visit positively, avoid sharing your own dental worries, and consider role-playing being the dentist at home to make it feel familiar and fun.

Additional Needs

Do you treat children with additional needs or disabilities?
Yes, we welcome children with a wide range of additional needs, including autism, sensory processing differences, ADHD, and physical or learning disabilities. Please let us know in advance so we can tailor the visit to your child.
Can we arrange a longer appointment or a familiarisation visit first?

Absolutely. We're happy to offer extended appointments or a short introductory visit with no treatment involved, just so your child can meet the team and see the surgery beforehand.

My child is sensitive to noise and bright lights — can you accommodate this?

Yes. We can dim the lights, minimise use of noisy equipment where possible, and allow your child to bring headphones, sunglasses, or a comfort item to the appointment.

Can I stay with my child during their appointment?

Of course — parents and carers are always welcome to stay for the whole visit.

What should I tell you about my child's needs before the appointment?
It helps to know about any sensory sensitivities, communication preferences, previous dental experiences, and anything that helps your child feel calm. Just mention this when booking or send us a message beforehand.

Appointments

How do I book an appointment?
The easiest way to book an appointment is via our booking portal. Alternatively, you can contact us by phone 0r email, or pop into the practice and speak to one of the team.
How long will the appointment take?

A routine check-up usually takes around 15–20 minutes, though first visits and appointments for nervous or additional needs children may be longer. Appointments where treatment is carried out will be longer.

How often should my child have a check-up?

We generally recommend a check-up every six months, though your dentist may suggest a different schedule based on your child's needs.

Can I book appointments for siblings together?

Yes, we're happy to schedule siblings back-to-back or together where possible — just let us know when booking.

What if my child needs an emergency appointment?

Call us straight away and we'll do our best to see your child as quickly as possible, usually the same day.

Do you accept NHS patients?

We are a private practice, which allows us to offer longer appointments, a relaxed environment, and flexibility to tailor each visit to your child's individual needs. We do not accept NHS patients.

Have questions about a specific treatment?

Every treatment page has its own set of FAQs specific to that service — just visit the relevant page to find out more.

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Can't find what you're looking for?

We know every child (and parent!) is different, so no question is too big or too small. Whether it’s about wobbly first visits or getting ready for treatment, our friendly team is here to help your little one feel safe, happy and smiling all the way through.

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