Paediatric Dentistry is an age-defined specialty that provides primary and comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral health care for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health care needs. Services include current preventive measures and sealants, restoration of primary and young permanent teeth, management of hard and soft tissue pathology (diseases) and traumatic injuries. Space maintainers and minor tooth movement appliances are provided when indicated. A program for children with special health needs is also available.

Concerned with the oral health diagnosis of children from birth until the age of 16 through appropriate preventative, education and treatment of services.

The aim of the specialty of Paediatric Dentistry is to improve the oral health care of infants, children and adolescents through appropriate preventive, educational and treatment services. There is a very broad nature of work undertaken which requires a skilled combination of medical, dental and communication skills training. A large number of children are treated who have facial and dental anomalies, have been involved in dento alveolar trauma, have varying special needs and who are fearful or resistant to care by general dental practitioners.

The number of trainees and consultants in Paediatric Dentistry has enlarged considerably over the last 15 years and continues to develop. It encompasses many aspects of General Dentistry whilst developing specialist skills in the care of children of all ages. There are clinical challenges in dealing with developmental problems and in providing care for those with disabilities. There are also opportunities for teaching and research into the comprehensive and therapeutic oral health care for children from birth to adolescence.

Additionally, there are specialties in oral medicine, oral pathology, dental and maxillofacial radiology and oral microbiology.