Free public dental care

All children under 18 years of age can access free dental care provided by NSW Health at public dental clinics.

The NSW Health Mobile Dental Outreach Program provides access to free dental care that is delivered by experienced NSW Health staff, using a combination of fully equipped dental vans and/or portable dental equipment.

Where is the program available?

The program is currently being run in several different local health districts.

Please contact your local public dental service to find out what programs are being offered locally.

What to expect when your child visits a NSW Health mobile dental clinic

At their first appointment, children may receive the following care (if clinically indicated and if parents/carers have consented):

  • a comprehensive examination
  • dental x-rays
  • dental clinical photographs
  • dental clean
  • fluoride varnish application
  • fissure sealants

More information about what these involve can be found on Oral health care explained.

A review appointment may also be scheduled within 12 months for a check-up and a second application of fluoride.

If a child needs follow-up dental care (e.g., fillings), public dental service staff will contact parents/carers to discuss options for treatment. This may include providing further treatment at a mobile dental clinic or in a local fixed dental clinic. Parent/carer consent is required for any further treatment.

For more information about the clinics and program, refer to the Frequently Asked Questions.

Dental services for children at other schools

All children under 18 years of age can access free dental care provided by NSW Health at public dental clinics. Some children may also be eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS). All children seen by public dental services receive the same high quality care regardless of their eligibility for the CDBS and no fees are charged, even if CDBS benefits have been fully used up.

To book an appointment or for further information, please contact your local public dental service.

Some local health districts may offer the NSW Health Primary School Mobile Dental Program at participating primary schools.

Alternatively, if your child has a regular public or private dental practitioner, you may wish to continue your child's care with that provider. Please note that when visiting a non-NSW Health service, the costs of your child's care may be covered by private health insurance, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (if your child is eligible), payments made by you, or a combination of these.


Current as at: Monday 13 March 2023