STUDENTS across Shepparton will now have a brighter smile with a re-elected Andrews Labor Government to provide free dental care at all public primary and secondary schools.
The $395.8M initiative will save families around $400 a year per child in dental costs, as well as the inconvenience of taking time off work for appointments.
In Shepparton, this will mean 8,402 students will be able to access free dental care at school.
Oral disease is one of the most common and expensive diseases to treat, but it is also the most preventable. Public dental care is available for Victorian children aged up to 12 years, but less than 20 percent of eligible children take it up.
The initiative will cover oral health education and check-ups, radiographs, teeth cleaning, application of fluoride and dental sealants, fillings, root canals and impressions for mouth guards.
Students will also be provided with a free dental pack each year to promote ongoing oral health.
