Free dental care for teenagers.

Basic dental care is free for teenagers from Year 9 until their 18th birthday. To enrol, just bring their NHI number and sign a short form.

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Year 9 until their 18th birthday
No cost for basic dental care
Enrol with their NHI number

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On this page

What's covered

Prior approval

Getting started

Questions

What’s covered

Free care includes

Regular check-ups
X-rays when they’re needed
Cleaning and preventive care, such as fissure sealants and fluoride
Fillings
Extractions
Advice on brushing, diet and protecting teeth in sport

What isn’t covered

Braces, clear aligners, whitening and other cosmetic treatment aren’t part of the free scheme. If your teenager would benefit from orthodontic treatment, we’ll talk you through the options and costs first, with nothing started until you agree.

Braces for kids

Prior approval

When more treatment is needed

Some treatment isn’t part of routine free care, but may still be funded with prior approval. These are two separate routes, and we’ll take care of the paperwork for either.

Through the teen dental scheme Treatment such as root canal treatment, a crown, a bridge or wisdom tooth removal can sometimes be funded through the scheme with prior approval from Te Whatu Ora. We’ll apply for you and let you know the outcome before anything goes ahead
Through ACC If a tooth was damaged in an accident, the injury is covered separately through ACC. Some treatment, such as crowns or implants, needs ACC approval first, which we’ll organise.

Getting started

Enrolling is easy

1Book a check-upBook online or call, and let us know your teenager is eligible for free dental care.

2Bring their NHI numberTheir National Health Index number is on prescriptions and hospital letters, or your family doctor can give it to you.

3Sign the enrolment formA parent or caregiver signs a short form at the first visit, and that’s it. They’re enrolled.

4Regular check-upsWe’ll let you know when their next check-up is due, until they turn 18.

Questions

Your questions, answered

Still wondering about something? Give us a call on 09 570 2823 or email reception@classicsdental.com, and we’ll get back to you.

Does it really cost nothing?

Yes. Basic dental care covered by the scheme is free. If something outside the scheme is recommended, we’ll explain it and give you the cost first.

Can my teenager come on their own?

Yes, once they’re enrolled, teenagers are welcome to come on their own. A parent or caregiver usually signs the enrolment form.

What's an NHI number?

It’s the unique National Health Index number everyone in New Zealand has for health services. You’ll find it on prescriptions and hospital letters, or your family doctor can tell you what it is.

Are root canals, crowns or wisdom teeth covered?

Sometimes. Some of this treatment isn’t part of routine free care, but it may be funded through the scheme with prior approval from Te Whatu Ora. We’ll apply for you and let you know before treatment starts.

Are braces covered?

No. Braces and clear aligners aren’t part of the free scheme, but we offer interest-free payment plans.

What happens when they turn 18?

From their 18th birthday, dental care is paid for. They’re welcome to stay with us as an adult patient.