It's all smiles for children in the Northern Rivers as the NSW Health Primary School Mobile Dental van, known locally as the Molar Patroller, hits the road to tend to their dental needs.
The Northern NSW Local Health District's (NNSWLHD) oral health team are increasing the program's reach, visiting public primary schools across the region to teach children how to take care of their teeth.
The team also checks if the children's teeth are healthy, performs preventative treatments, and will complete dental treatment in the van including fillings, stainless steel crowns and extractions. If possible, they will also strengthen their teeth to fight against cavities.
In 2024-25, the Primary School Mobile Dental Program treated 863 students from 30 schools across the district, focusing on schools furthest away from NNSWLHD's fixed dental clinics.
The free service is preparing to expand its outreach in mid-2026, with funding for a second van recently announced as part of a $37.5 million NSW Government investment to expand the Mobile Dental Van program across the state.
Children can also access free dental appointments at the district's fixed dental clinics located in Grafton, Yamba, Casino, Goonellabah, Ballina, Byron Bay or Tweed Heads by calling 1800 679 336.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"I'm delighted to see this innovative program bring dental care directly to our primary schools, making it easier for children in the Northern Rivers 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.
"Plans are now underway to expand the reach of this important service in the Northern Rivers with a second dental van in the pipeline following additional funding announced in the Budget."
Quotes attributable to Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin:
"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.
"This initiative highlights the collective effort of healthcare providers, educators and families working together to create brighter futures for our children."
Quotes attributable to NNSWLHD Oral Health Manager Graeme Williams:
"We're visiting the smaller, more remote schools in our District as those children may not be particularly close to other available dental services," Mr Williams said.
"Our team of experienced oral health therapists and dental therapists are trained to deliver care to children. They are providing fully comprehensive treatment in the Molar Patroller, performing everything from cleans to fillings, at no cost to parents or the school.
"Good oral hygiene is the foundation of good overall health, particularly as we grow older, so it is vital we ensure our young people's dental needs are looked after so they get the best start in life."
Quotes attributable to Crystal Creek Public School Teacher Oliver Hughes:
"Oral hygiene is so important for our children, especially younger students who are still in the process of losing their baby teeth and having their adult teeth slowly appear.
"It also gives parents and caregivers some brief respite in their ever-busy lives knowing their children have been seen by a dentist in school time.
"I'm so pleased we have been part of this initiative, it's a crucial service that I hope returns to Crystal Creek Public School."
Find out more information on Oral Health Services at NNSWLHD.
Parents with questions about the school dental program can view frequently asked questions or contact us on 1300 651 625, Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 4.30pm.
Children under 18 years of age can access free dental care provided by NSW Health at public dental clinics if they are a NSW resident, are eligible for Medicare and have their parent/guardian sign the Child Dental Benefits Schedule Bulk Billing Patient Consent Form. Find out more about NSW public dental services.
