Adolescent oral health service

Free dental care is available to teens from Year 9 to their 18th birthday from contracted dentists through the Adolescent Oral Health Service 

Who is eligible?

Children and teenagers from Year 9 until their 18^th birthday have access to free dental care under the adolescent oral health programme in Nelson Marlborough.

COVID-19 Claiming Extension

Did you or do you know someone who turned 18 years between 18 August 2021 and 30 December 2022 and didn’t receive their final examination and/or treatment while aged 17 years?

They will also be eligible for free care under the adolescent oral health programme for this limited time

What’s the deal?

No matter where you’re at… school, training course, work or unemployed… you can receive FREE dental care every year until your 18^th birthday!

What free dental care will I get?

• A yearly check-up

• X-rays if necessary

• Cleaning to remove plaque, staining and tartar

• Fillings for teeth that have tooth decay (holes)

• Extractions to remove teeth that have been badly affected by tooth decay.

   

Why go for a check-up?

Having a healthy mouth and an attractive smile can improve your confidence and self-esteem.

Regular check-ups help you maintain healthy teeth for life

Dentists can give you expert advice about:

• keeping your teeth, mouth and gums healthy (called oral health)

• preventing bad breath

• dental decay and toothache

• preventing gum disease (gingivitis)

Good oral health can also improve your overall health. (Gum disease has been linked with heart and lung disease and diabetes).

How do I access the service?

1. Most dentists in the Nelson Marlborough district provide free care, find these listed at the bottom of this page 

2. Phone or visit your chosen dentist to check if they offer dental care for teenagers.

3. Make an appointment for a check-up

4. Attend your FREE appointment! It’s so easy – And you can take a support person with you if you like!

    

Tips for a healthy smile and fresh breath

• Be smoke-free and vape free

• Use a mouthguard when playing contact sports

• Fluoride toothpaste (spit, don’t rinse)

• Enrol for free dental care

• Eat and drink wisely
  
  

For more information

• Call 0800 TALK TEETH (0800 825 583)

• Talk to your local free dentist
  
  

Which dentist should I go to?

Choosing a dentist is a bit like choosing a hairdresser. You may follow the advice of a mate, health professional or family member.

See the contracted dental practices offering the service in your region below:

Find your nearest clinic:

Helpful websites

• Healthy Smiles website

• Sugar-sweetened beverages

• Ministry of Health: Keep your smile looking good

• Tap into water website