Smile Squad on the move
The Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) Smile Squad is providing free dental care to children in schools across the Central Goldfields and surrounding areas.
Led by Oral Health Therapist Kate Berend, and Dental Assistants Talia Arrowsmith and Jessica Rafferty, the Smile Squad team is making headway in improving the oral health of local students.
Smile Squad is a Victorian government initiative provides free oral health promotion, dental check-ups, and treatment to kids in Victorian government schools.
By bringing these services to schools, children receive essential dental care that supports their overall well-being.
The MDHS Smile Squad has had a busy year, already visiting Bealiba Primary School, Maryborough Education Centre, Avoca Primary School, and Talbot Primary School.
The mobile dental van provides comprehensive dental examinations, including x-rays, and preventive treatments such as fissure sealants, teeth cleaning, and fluoride applications.
For students needing further care, follow-up appointments are scheduled at MDHS, ensuring continuous support from the dental services team.
MDHS Oral Health Therapist Kate Berend highlighted the importance of the program. “Smile Squad is crucial in promoting good oral health among young students. By providing these services at school, we are removing barriers to access to ensure every child has the opportunity to maintain a healthy smile.
“Preventive care is key to avoiding serious dental issues, and Smile Squad arms children with the knowledge and tools they need for lifelong oral health.”
Oral disease is one of the most common and preventable health issues, yet it remains a leading cause of hospitalisations for children under ten in Victoria. By addressing dental problems early, Smile Squad helps prevent more severe health issues with better health outcomes for students.
Looking ahead, the Smile Squad team will visit Timor Primary School and Dunolly Primary School this month, with plans to reach Carisbrook Primary School in 2025. Each school will receive follow-up visits every six months to reapply fluoride treatments, further strengthening teeth and preventing decay.
“Through the Smile Squad program, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of young people, ensuring that they have the brightest smiles and the best start in life,” said Kate.
For more information about the Smile Squad program, visit health.vic.gov.au/smile-squad.