Kids No-Drill Dentistry in Blackburn
Dental treatment for young kids can be a challenging and fearful experience for both parents and children. It can seem impossible for children to sit still and, unfortunately, this makes it hard for them to sit safely through a “drill and fill” procedure.
At Whitehorse Dental, your kids will be as comfortable and happy as possible with our no-drill dentistry service. No-drill dentistry is great for young kids who need fillings because the treatment is quick and non-invasive. The treatment is ideal for fidgety or anxious children.
In the past, when young children had cavities that needed fixing, they would require a general anaesthetic to complete the procedure. General anaesthetic added huge costs and stress for parents and, with these barriers, it’s no wonder dental decay has become one of the most prevalent health problems in Australia.
How does no-drill dentistry work?
No-drill dentistry is made possible by a special medication called Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF). It’s a liquid medication painted onto the decayed teeth. When applied, SDF stops the cavity from getting any bigger because silver kills all the bacteria causing tooth decay. Additionally, fluoride hardens the tooth surface.
If the decay is small, nothing else needs to be done because the tooth is well-protected by the treatment. Where there is a physical cavity, depending on the situation, we may either fill it (with no need for drilling) or place a protective silver crown. We call this a “princess crown” or a “superman tooth” and kids love how sparkly and shiny it is. We’ve also designed our crown procedure specifically for children.
With no need to drill, the treatment is quick and gentle. Additionally, the ease of the procedure makes it possible to treat even multiple cavities in kids without the need for sedation or general anaesthetic.
Kids no-drill dentistry is suitable for kids of any age.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is no-drill dentistry for kids?
No-drill dentistry is a minimally invasive approach to treating early tooth decay in children—without needles, drills, or traditional fillings. It often uses techniques like fluoride treatment, dental sealants, and Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) to stop or slow down decay.
Is no-drill dentistry safe for children?
Yes. It is safe, evidence-based, and approved by Australian dental authorities. Materials like Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) have been extensively researched and are used globally to arrest decay without removing tooth structure.
How does Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) work?
SDF is a liquid applied directly to decayed teeth. It kills cavity-causing bacteria and hardens the decayed area, preventing the need for drilling. It’s especially effective for baby teeth and early-stage decay in permanent teeth.
Will no-drill treatments hurt my child?
No. Most no-drill procedures are completely painless—no needles or numbing are required. This makes it ideal for young children or those with dental anxiety.
What ages are suitable for no-drill dentistry?
Whitehorse Dental recommends no-drill techniques for children aged 2 and up, especially when baby teeth show early signs of decay or where traditional treatment is too stressful or not necessary yet.
What are the benefits of no-drill dentistry for kids?
No pain or anxiety
No local anaesthetic or drilling
Quick and simple treatment
Reduces fear of the dentist
Preserves more of the natural tooth
Are there any downsides to SDF or no-drill options?
The main cosmetic drawback is that SDF turns treated areas black as the decay is stabilised. However, this is often acceptable on back baby teeth and preferred over fillings or extractions in young children.
How long does no-drill treatment last?
SDF and other no-drill options often require re-application every 6 to 12 months to remain effective. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the progress of treated teeth.
Can no-drill dentistry be used for adult teeth?
Yes—SDF and similar approaches can be used for early decay in permanent teeth, especially in children or teens. However, for more advanced decay, traditional fillings or other restorative treatments may still be required.
How do I know if my child qualifies for no-drill treatment?
If your child has early-stage decay, visible small cavities, or anxiety about dental treatment, they may be a good candidate. Book a kids’ dental check-up at Whitehorse Dental, where the dentist can assess suitability and explain the best approach.
