This book is a ‘must read’ for any undergraduate or postgraduate student, or general dental practitioner who wants to immerse themselves in all aspects of the paediatric dental world. It was first published over 21 years ago and is entering its fifth edition. Thirty-three leading paediatric dentists and respected experts have authored and contributed to the book. Feedback from previous editions has allowed the authors to add new evidence-based practice, and has helped to create a more refined, relevant yet comprehensive book.

On reading the contents page, it seemed that the authors might cover so much ground that the book would be too text-heavy. This worry was quelled upon reading and the book is well structured with 18 clear chapters. It is also easy to read, with a great blend of text, diagrams, illustrations, tables and ‘key points’ sections to aid learning. The chapters are well thought out, and discuss ways to introduce children into the dental environment. They discuss key points in clinical examinations, treatment planning, and the management of a whole plethora of diagnoses a young person could present with.

The book provides guidance to managing caries in children and adolescents throughout the ages, with chapters dedicated to management in the preschool child, primary dentition, and young permanent dentition. The authors have also included a section dedicated to ‘advanced restorative dentistry’, since younger patients have become increasingly more cosmetically aware in recent times. The book continues to explore and summarise key topics such as periodontal disease, sedation, dental trauma, the paediatric/orthodontic interface, oral surgery, oral medicine, safeguarding, medically-compromised children and physically-impaired children.

The sections on safeguarding, dental trauma and pain management are especially helpful,