School dental program saving northern Victorian families up to $400 per child

By Contributed

Apr 30, 2025

The Smile Squad dental program is saving families hundreds of dollars. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Figures indicate that a school dental program is saving families in Benalla, and across northern Victoria, up to $400 per child.

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The significant savings on dental check-ups, part of the Victorian Government’s Smile Squad school dental program, are continuing to take pressure off the hip pocket.

Member for northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said that for families, the price of a visit to the dentist can be a deterrent to regular check-ups – but with Smile Squad, maintaining oral health doesn’t need to be a financial burden.

“Smile Squad is just one way we are supporting the health of young Victorians – with parents also saving money with through the popular $400 School Saving Bonus,” Ms Symes said.

Delivered by mobile teams of dedicated oral health clinicians who travel across the state in bright orange vans, the program provides free check-ups and follow-up care, x-rays, teeth cleaning, application of fluoride and dental sealants, fillings, and root canals to school students.

Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said that with Term two now under way, parents are encouraged to register their child to take part in the program – and it’s now easier than ever, with a new simplified form available in 31 languages making sure parents from any background can provide consent ahead of a visit to their child’s school.

“Smile Squad is saving families time and money and keeping our youngest smiles bright and healthy,” Ms Thomas said.

“Good dental health is part of good health overall – that’s why we are encouraging parents to make sure they have signed their new consent form so when Smile Squad comes to their kids’ school they can use this free service.”

Dental conditions are one of the highest causes of preventable hospitalisations for children.

Improving access to dental care is critical, with tooth decay now five times more prevalent than asthma among children.

Smile Squad is one of a suite of programs funded by the Victorian Government to ease the cost of living pressures on families including the $400 School Saving Bonus, Glasses for Kids program, school breakfast clubs, discounted student travel, and free swimming lessons.

More information on the Smile Squad program can be found at health.vic.gov.au/smile-squad/