The State Government’s Smile Squad program has now delivered free dental care to more than 100,000 students.
Launched in 2019, the program has helped thousands of parents save time and money on dental services, ensuring children from all backgrounds have access to quality healthcare.
Receiving a $16.9 million boost in the State Budget 2023/24, the program is set to continue through to 2026 and expand into low-fee, non-government schools.
The program is delivered through a mobile orange van, staffed by teams of dedicated oral health clinicians. The Smile Squad provides free check-ups, x-rays, teeth cleaning, application of fluoride and dental sealants, fillings, and root canals to school students.
The program has also delivered more than 600,000 dental health packs which include a toothbrush and toothpaste, to students.
A survey of students attending Smile Squad found that 36 per cent of them don’t brush their teeth twice a day, and 16 per cent had never had their teeth checked by a dental professional before Smile Squad visited their school.
Across Australia, at least a quarter of children have experienced tooth decay, and in Victoria, dental conditions are the highest cause of preventable hospitalisations for children aged under 10.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas praised the program, stating it offered an accessible service for all children.
“Smile Squad is saving families time and money – ensuring that all Victorian Government school students can get the high-quality dental care they need, at school,” she said.
Victorian parents are encouraged to keep an eye out for information about Smile Squad and sign their kids up when the service next visits their school.
