A child receives treatment in IAD-MSC.
Early childhood caries is the most prevalent oral health issue among preschool children in Hong Kong. According to the latest territory-wide oral health survey conducted by the Department of Health of the Government, half of the 5-year-old children in Hong Kong suffer from tooth decay, with over 90% of their decayed teeth left untreated.
With the generous support of the Wu Chung Family Charitable Foundation, the Division of Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics and the Institute for Advanced Dentistry - Multi-Specialty Clinic (IAD-MSC) at the Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong (HKU), are proud to announce the launch of the Early Childhood Caries Treatment Project. This initiative aims to provide free comprehensive dental care to underprivileged children suffering from tooth decay.
Children aged 1-5 suffering from tooth decay and are receiving Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) or are part of a family eligible for public rental housing are welcome to apply for treatment. Eligible applicants will be contacted for a dental screening conducted by IAD-MSC specialists in Paediatric Dentistry. If the children are medically fit for treatment, they will be recruited as patients, and treatment appointments will be scheduled.
Although the government has established a well-regarded School Dental Care Service for primary school students, young children aged 5 or below still face challenges in accessing specialty dental treatment, particularly for those coming from underprivileged backgrounds.
"Tooth decay can significantly affect young children's health and development. The pain and infection caused by tooth decay can make it challenging for children to eat, sleep, and maintain a healthy growth pattern. Furthermore, it is a leading reason for their absence from school," said Professor Cynthia Yiu, Chair Professor of Paediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry.
HKU Dentistry is grateful for the continuous support by the Wu Chung Family Charitable Foundation, a key supporter of the HKU Dentistry's SmilesForAll Advanced Dentistry Fund. The project aims to fill the gap in public services by providing free-of-charge curative care to children from low-income families.
Advanced dental care can make a significant impact to those who have severe and complex oral diseases. HKU Dentistry and IAD-MSC are dedicated to improving access to comprehensive oral healthcare for the Hong Kong community. The Early Childhood Caries Treatment Project is a testament to this commitment. With the specialty expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, the dental specialists from the Faculty can provide life-changing care to those who need it the most.
HKU Dentistry's "Early Childhood Caries Treatment Project"
Eligibility:
- Receiving Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA); or
- Income not exceeding the latest means-test threshold for public rental housing; or
- Residents of public rental housing.
Procedure:
- Submit online application form and upload supporting documents;
- IAD-MSC staff will contact the applicant to schedule an initial screening appointment to assess suitability for joining the Project;
- Upon confirmation of eligibility and suitability, IAD-MSC staff will contact the applicant to schedule the first treatment.
