Free treatment for Teenagers (13-17)

Adolescents in New Zealand who meet the eligibility criteria  for publicly funded health and disability services are entitled to free basic oral health services from birth to 17 years of age (until their 18th birthday). It’s easy to enrol – just give us a call or come in and see us, we’ll guide you through it and give you the right forms for you to fill in.

STANDARD TREATMENTS

Standard treatments are free and include:

• routine examination to check teeth for decay and look at the gums and mouth for any problems

• X-rays used to find tooth decay and other problems that can’t be seen

• fluoride treatment, which helps make the surface of the teeth more resistant to decay

• fissure sealants, which are a thin layer of white filling, painted onto teeth that are at risk of developing tooth decay

• cleaning to plaque, staining and tartar from teeth

• fillings to restore teeth that have been affected by tooth decay

• extractions to remove teeth that have been badly affected by tooth decay

If your child needs extra treatments, you'll be referred to another oral health service provider. Many treatments will still be free, but some you'll need to pay for, such as getting braces.

Don’t wait for teeth problems; take your child for regular check-ups. Dental check-ups mean problems are recognised and treated early. Try to get an appointment with us at a time when your child isn’t to tired, and remember to be positive about dental visits by using language such as ‘keeping your teeth healthy’ and ‘keeping your smile beautiful.’ GOod habits at a young age mean better teeth in the long run!