Smile Squad expands reach to students in region

The Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) Smile Squad is continuing its mission to improve the oral health of children in schools across the Central Goldfields and surrounding areas by providing free dental care.

The Smile Squad program is a Victorian government initiative delivering essential dental check-ups, treatments and health promotion to students in Victorian government schools.

MDHS Oral Health Therapist Kate Berend, Dental Assistant Talia Arrowsmith and the Smile Squad team are making significant strides in improving the oral health of local students as they travel throughout the region.

“Our Smile Squad team aim to give children the best possible start in life by ensuring they have healthy, happy smiles,” said Kate Berend, Oral Health Therapist, Maryborough District Health Service.

Oral health issues are among the most common and preventable health concerns and can be addressed before they become more serious problems.

“Through Smile Squad there has been an increase, in the number of children receiving dental services,” said Ms Berend.

“Our team is dedicated to helping young people maintain good oral health by removing the barriers to accessing dental care.

“The Smile Squad not only provides essential treatments but also equips children with the knowledge and tools they need to care for their teeth in the future,” said Ms Berend.

The mobile dental van provides a comprehensive range of dental services, including routine examinations, x-rays, preventive treatments like fissure sealants, teeth cleaning and fluoride applications.

Look out for the orange Smile Squad van at:

• Bealiba Primary School on Friday 21 February
• Maryborough Education Centre (MEC) Primary and Specialist School from Monday 24 February to Monday 3 March
• Timor Primary School from Thursday 27 March to Friday 4 April
• Dunolly Primary School from Wednesday 21 May to Monday 2 June
• Maryborough Education Centre (MEC) Secondary School from Monday 23 June to Friday 4 July

Each school will have the opportunity to receive follow-up visits in six months to reapply for fluoride treatments, further strengthening teeth and preventing decay.

“Our dental health team will be expanding Smile Squad services to more schools this year,” said Ms Berend.

“To book a spot for your child, please contact your school directly to fill out consent forms.

“For students requiring more extensive care, follow-up appointments are scheduled at MDHS to ensure continuous support,” said Ms Berend.

For more information about the Smile Squad program, visit health.vic.gov.au/smile-squad.