HealthInfo Canterbury
Dental care for school children
Te ratonga niho mō ngā tamariki i te kura
Primary and intermediate school tamariki (children) (years 1 to 8) are seen in dental vans that visit schools and in Community Dental Clinics.
The free service operates during school terms, with schools letting parents know when the dental van will be visiting. If your tamaiti (child) needs more complicated care or orthodontic treatment, the Community Dental Service will arrange a referral to your family dentist or the Hospital Dental Service.
At the end of Year 8, the Community Dental Service will transfer your Year 8 tamaiti to free adolescent dental care. This can be your family dentist if you choose.
If your Year 8 tamaiti is allocated a dentist who isn't your family dentist, you can change this by contacting the Adolescent Oral Health Coordinator on (03) 335-4230 or email freedentalcare@cdhb.health.nz.
Finding a dentist
If you would like to find a family dentist, there are many Christchurch and Canterbury dentists to choose from.
If you have questions about your child's dental care, you can contact the Community Dental Service by calling 0800-846-983 or by email.
Quick tips for parents of young tamariki
- Brush your child's teeth morning and night.
- Choose a fluoride toothpaste.
- Help your tamaiti with brushing until 8 years of age.
- Choose water or milk instead of carbonated drinks, soft drinks, cordials or juice.
- Don't rinse your child's teeth after brushing – 'swishing' and spitting is best.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Ministry of Health – Teeth and gums
Having healthy teeth and gums helps protect your smile and supports your overall health. It can also avoid the pain and cost of decay.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed March 2022.
Review key: HIDCC-49010
