Children and teenagers in the Northern Territory have a golden opportunity to boast the best smiles in the country with free dental services available to students enrolled in school under the age of 18.
Free services are available to children who are below school age or attending school or preschool via NT Health’s purpose built Casuarina Paediatric Clinic, school-based clinics or remote community clinics.
The Casuarina Paediatric Dental Clinic provides ease of access for children of all ages with families able to bring along their toddler, primary school student and high school student for a dental check in the one visit.
Dental and oral health therapists can provide services including dental checks, preventative support, treatment and advice on issues including pain, trauma management, emergency care and fillings.
Additionally, with junior Northern Territory Football League matches approaching – Territory parents are reminded their children can get a free custom-fit mouthguard to protect their teeth.
All Territory children enrolled in school are entitled to free custom-made mouthguards until they are 18 years old.
Additional eligibility criteria includes that all required dental treatment is completed, the first four upper permanent front teeth are present and evidence of participation in sport.
Parents of children in Greater Darwin, Gove and Katherine can make an appointment for a custom mouthguard or dental services by contacting the Top End Oral Health Service on 08 8922 6466. Central Australian parents can book an appointment by calling 08 8951 6713.
Quotes from Health Minister Natasha Fyles:
“I encourage every Territory family to take advantage of these free dental services.
“We know that junior football league matches are just around the corner and it’s so important for families to be aware that free custom-fit mouthguards are available.
“The Territory Labor Government is delivering to ensure every Territory child has access to quality dental care.”
Quotes from Principal Dental Therapist, Top End Oral Health Service, Adam Bacon:
“Dental repairs do not last forever and damaged teeth can become a lifelong problem. Prevention is always better than the cure, so play it safe and wear a mouthguard.
“Custom mouthguards are made to fit, providing better protection and comfort.”
Quotes from Darwin mother Christine Van Den Berg Hammer:
“I know first-hand how important mouthguard protection is during sport.
“My older son was hit in the mouth by a ball during a hockey game – thankfully his cheek was protected because of his mouthguard.
“With Jamal enjoying playing hockey, I made sure he also got a custom mouthguard so he can stay safe.”
Photo caption: 10-year-old Jamal Van Den Berg Hammer gets his mouthguard fitted by NT Health Oral Health Therapist Lauren Cross.
Northern Territory Government
