Children in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven are receiving free, fast and convenient school-based dental care thanks to the roll out of a mobile dental van in the region.
The NSW Health Primary School Mobile Dental Program launched in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) in October 2023 and has visited 15 schools and provided dental care for more than 1500 children in its first 12 months.
The mobile dental van visits participating primary schools in the region and provides on-site dental check-ups, cleans, x-rays and other preventive treatments, as well as education on good oral hygiene practices.
This initiative not only addresses immediate dental needs but also equips children with the knowledge to maintain their oral health.
In addition to the Primary School Mobile Dental Program, all children under 18 years of age can access free dental care provided by NSW Health at public dental clinics. For more information, visit NSW public dental services.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car:
"It is fantastic to see that the dental van has made 1,000 visits to public schools across NSW, offering free check-ups so many public school students.
"It is critical for young students to learn healthy habits from an early age, and free visits from mobile dental clinics have now helped thousands of students do just that."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"I am thrilled to see this innovative program bring dental care directly to our schools, making it easier for children in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven to receive essential dental check-ups and treatments.
"The program is part of a broader commitment by the NSW Government to enhance health services across the state, focusing on preventive care and early intervention."
Quotes attributable to Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:
"The mobile dental van not only makes sure that essential dental services are easily accessible to children, but it also fosters a positive attitude towards oral hygiene from an early age.
Quotes attributable to Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson:
"Oral health is a crucial part of overall wellbeing, and we want to ensure that every child has access to quality dental care.
Quotes attributable to Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart:
"This initiative highlights the collective effort of healthcare providers, educators, and families working together to create brighter futures for our children.
Quotes attributable to Member for South Coast Liza Butler:
"Our teeth help us eat, talk, and smile. Setting children up with good dental habits early is essential!
"The mobile dental clinics are a great and important resource for the parents and carers in our community, by providing free and convenient dental care to children."
Quotes attributable to Labor spokesperson for Kiama Sarah Kaine MLC:
"We want to help promote positive habits early on, ensuring that our kids grow up with bright smiles and healthy teeth. These dental vans ensure we are investing in children's dental health today so there are fewer issues tomorrow."
