Dental services for children

Children in the Northern Territory (NT) who are attending school are entitled to free public dental services until they are 18 years old. 

These services are delivered through school-based clinics, community clinics, remote health centres and mobile services. 

Children are usually treated by dental therapists and oral health therapists. 

In some cases your child may be referred to a dentist or specialists if more complex, specialised treatment or advice is needed. 

Find out how to make an appointment.

Child dental benefits schedule

The child dental benefits schedule offers free basic dental services to eligible children aged between two and 17 years. This is a program that allows Oral Health Services NT to bulk bill the Australian Government for eligible services. 

When you take your child to the dentist for basic services, you will be asked to fill in forms so that Oral Health Services NT can claim for the services. You do not receive any money as part of the child dental benefits schedule.

You will receive a letter telling you whether you are eligible at the beginning of the calendar year.

Go to the child dental benefits schedule website for more information.

Taking your child to the dentist

Some children can be quite anxious going to the dentist so having a parent with them can help.

It will also help you to understand what treatment is needed and how to keep your child's mouth and teeth healthy.

Children under 16

If your child is under 16 they must have a parent or guardian with them at each appointment to give informed consent.