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HealthInfo West Coast-Te Tai Poutini

Dental care for babies & under 5s

Babies and children aged between 0 and 5 years old are eligible for free check-ups and treatment at a local community dental clinic of your choice.

The community dental service will arrange suitable treatment for your baby or child, which could involve visiting your family dentist or the hospital dental service.

Ask your Well Child Tamariki Ora or Plunket provider to refer your child or call 0800-TALK-TEETH (0800-825-583). Early enrolment with a dental service will give your child a great start on their oral health. All children should have their first dental check by 2 years of age.

If you have questions about your child's dental care, you can contact the Community Dental Service by calling 0800-846-983 or (03) 769-7710.

Quick tips for parents of young children

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Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed October 2018.

See also:

Looking after teeth in babies and children

Page reference: 654113

Review key: HIDCC-49010