The Smile Squad program will provide free dental check-ups and treatment to public Primary and Secondary Schools in the Greater Bendigo region.
Bendigo Health Dental Services has begun the roll out of the State Government’s Smile Squad program, providing free dental treatment to public school children in the Greater Bendigo region.
Premier Daniel Andrews joined local MPs Jacinta Allan and Maree Edwards at White Hills Primary School on Friday to see the program in action.
“There are many kids who for various reasons miss out on the dental care that is appropriate for them,” Mr Andrews said.
“This isn't just about healthcare. This is also about the cost of living. This is much more convenient for parents, they're not having to take time off work.”
The outreach service delivered by Bendigo Health provides free dental check-ups and treatment and will be made available to 35 public Primary and Secondary Schools in the region, with more than 12,500 children expected to be offered treatment.
Bendigo is one of the first regional areas to roll out the statewide program, which is funded through $321.9 million from the state government.
Bendigo Health Senior Oral Health Therapist Sophie McKenna said the program was a good opportunity to engage directly with children from an early age to establish good oral health behaviours.
“This program will have a significant impact on long-term oral health. Dental disease is a significant issue in the children that we see, one in three children enter primary school with tooth decay so this program is aimed at preventing dental diseases in younger children,” she said.
Ms McKenna said there had been a significant shift in managing oral health with more preventative options available.
“We are here to support families to make informed decisions relating to their children’s oral health management whilst encouraging the eat well, drink well and clean well message,” she said.
The Smile Squad program includes teeth cleaning, fluoride application, restorations, fissure sealants and any other non-cosmetic treatments.
Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said: “Tooth decay is preventable with the right treatment and check-ups. That’s why we’re making sure every Bendigo student in primary and secondary public schools will get the care they need, at no cost to their families.”
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said: “A quarter of children across Australia have untreated tooth decay – we’re addressing that through this landmark program, giving local kids better teeth and a brighter smile.”