With Dental Health Week (August 4 - 10) just wrapped up, dental professionals across the Western Plains are sounding the alarm on a little-known but significant public health issue.

More than 1.5 million Australian children are missing out on free dental care each year, simply because their parents don’t know it’s available.

Dr Sophie Halpin, a dentist from Dubbo and Chairperson of the Western Division of the Australian Dental Association NSW (ADA NSW), said that confusion around the Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is keeping thousands of local families from accessing essential dental treatment their children are entitled to.

“CDBS is for families that receive eligible Centrelink payments like Family Tax Benefit A and B and it gives up to $1,132 every two years for dental treatments for kids aged between birth and 17,” Dr Halpin said.

The scheme covers a range of basic dental care, including check-ups, cleaning, fluoride treatments, fissure sealants, fillings, and tooth extractions.

“It certainly covers the basics,” Dr Halpin said.

“It’s really only the more complicated treatments like orthodontics or general anaesthetic procedures that aren’t covered.”

Despite more than 2.6 million children being eligible for the CDBS nationwide, only 36 per cent of families actually use it, leaving over 1.5 million children missing out on dental care that could shape their long-term health.

“There is a good swathe of families in the Western Plains who would be eligible,” Dr Halpin said.

Chairperson of the Western Division of the Australian Dental Association NSW and local dentist, Dr Sophie Halpin, urges all parents to check their eligibility to access free dental care for their children.

“But awareness of the scheme is still quite low.

"That’s the message we’re trying to get out there - if you’re not sure, check your eligibility.

“The easiest way for parents to check is through the Centrelink app or website.

"Not all dentists participate but statewide participation is really high.

“If you’re calling a private clinic, ask if they participate in the Child Dental Benefits Schedule and whether they bulk bill.

"Some clinics can charge a co-payment, so it's important to ask before you book.”

Public dental clinics are another option, where eligible children can always access care under the scheme.

Beyond just awareness of the CDBS, ADA NSW is highlighting worrying trends in oral hygiene habits among both children and adults.

According to recent survey findings from the association, 43 per cent of parents say they struggle regularly to get their children to brush their teeth.

One in five adults admit to multitasking while brushing, from scrolling phones to cooking dinner, while some children have been found brushing in gardens, balconies, or while wandering the house.

Dr Halpin, a mother herself, says getting kids to brush their teeth consistently can be a challenge, but persistence and creativity pay off.

“It’s not one-size-fits-all,” she said.

“Every child is different.

"Some respond to sticker charts, others to timers or a fun new toothbrush with their favourite cartoon character.

"There are even brushing apps and songs that go for two minutes, which can really help younger kids learn the timing.”

But establishing healthy habits early is critical.

“Child dental health sets you up for oral health for the rest of your life," Dr Halpin said.

"If you can get off to a good start, you’ve got a better chance of maintaining good oral health long-term.”

She also stresses the importance of what she calls a “dental home,” building a relationship with a dental clinic from a young age, even when no problems are present.

“That way, the dentist can pick up small issues before they become big ones," she said.

"It’s about confidence-building, familiarity, and prevention.”

With dental appointments too often slipping down the list of priorities for families stretched by cost-of-living pressures, Dr Halpin wants local families to know that help is not only available - it’s already paid for!