Dental Services

Child dental services are provided to all eligible children under the age of 18. There is a strong emphasis on education, promotion and prevention. Both emergency and general dental care are provided under The Priority Oral Health Program and Waitlist Management Policy.

• Services are predominantly provided by oral health therapists
• Services provided include specialist referral, as required, to both paediatric and orthodontic services.

Paediatric specialist service

• Monthly clinic at Coffs Harbour by an internal referral process.

Orthodontic services

• Provided at Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie and Kempsey Dental Clinics.
• Referral is via an internal referral process.
• Orthodontic services are limited to severe cases.
• Children must hold or be listed as a dependent on a valid Australian government concession card.

Eligibility for children for free oral health services

• Normally reside within the boundary of the Mid North Coast Local Health District, and;
• Be less than 18 years of age, and;
• Hold a current Medicare card.
• Additional eligibility criteria may apply for some specialist services, such as orthodontic services.

Access services via the oral health contact centre on 1800 679 336

Adult dental services are provided to all eligible adults. There is an emphasis on providing emergency care, however general dental care is also provided under The Priority Oral Health Program and Waitlist Management Policy.

• The Priority Oral Health Program (POHP) prioritises access to dental assessment and treatment based on medical and dental need as well as socio-economic and other risk factors.
• The POHP triage questionnaire assists dental services to prioritise patients for clinical assessment according to the urgency of their problem.
• The priority clinical code allocated determines whether the person receives an appointment at this time or is placed onto a waiting list.
• Services provided include general dental care, emergency care and specialist referral.

Eligibility for adults to access oral health services

• Normally reside within the boundary of the Mid North Coast Local Health District, and;
• Be 18 years of age or older, and;
• Hold a current Medicare card, and;
• Hold a valid Australian government concession card.

Access services via the oral health contact centre on 1800 679 336

A healthy mouth is important for overall health and well-being. Healthy teeth and gums play an important part on your quality of life, helping you smile, speak, eat, socialise and feel good about yourself.

Having a healthy mouth, teeth and gums may reduce your risk of chronic disease. Chronic diseases include conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and respiratory conditions. 

To find our more visit: NSW Health Healthy Mouths, Healthy Living.