By Jessica Micallef
Sunbury and Macedon Ranges children will be showing off their pearly whites thanks to a state government initiative.
Public primary and high schools in both areas have been invited to join in the Smile Squad free dental program.
Smile Squad vans will visit schools and dentists will provide free check-ups, teeth cleaning, fluoride application, fissure sealants, fillings, root canals and any other non-cosmetic treatments required.
The program, which started in August last year, is expanding to include schools in the Macedon Ranges, Maribyrnong, Melton, Campaspe, East Gippsland, Wangaratta and parts of Hume and Casey.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said poor dental care early on could lead to more serious health problems later in life.
“I encourage all local schools to take up the invitation to have Smile Squad vans visit them this year so all children can have the opportunity for free dental check-ups,” she said.
“When it comes to oral health care, early prevention is the key and the Smile Squad program is designed to set our kids up with healthy habits for the rest of their lives.”
The program will be rolled out to all schools across the state by 2022.
Details: smilesquad.vic.gov.au
