Free Dental Treatment

Australian children rank fifth in the world for dental health but, those in lower socioeconomic areas fare poorly against the rest of the population. [These] children demonstrate a significantly increased incidence of dental disease. In 2001, evidence of dental disease in children of low socioeconomic status totalled 40% of 12 year olds and close to half (47.3%) of 6 year olds.¹ This has significant impact on their health and wellbeing.

That’s why Bella Dental Care offered children “in need” free dental treatment. This was the first time that many of these children had met with a dentist so it was a blessing that there were clowns on hand to keep the children happy and distracted throughout the visit.

All children took a ride in the dentist’s chair having an examination, their teeth cleaned and a treatment of fluoride. Some children had fillings on the day, were given a free follow up treatment if needed and some are receiving necessary on going treatment at no cost.

We are immensely grateful to the generosity of Bella Dental Care and everyone who made this trip to the dentist one of real enjoyment!

^{1The Australian Institute of Health & Welfare in its report, Socioeconomic differences in children’s dental health: The child dental health survey, Australia 2001 source www.ahm.com.au/content/showpagenum.asp?Page=8862#f}

The Will to paint a brighter future

Barnardos Australia engages with thousands of disadvantaged children and young people everyday. But this is still not enough.

Child protection notifications are on the rise. There has been a frightening increase of 146% since 2000.¹

We need our supporters to consider becoming ‘Guardians of Hope’ by making the gift of a lifetime – a bequest.

Guardians of Hope aspire to the vision that all children and young people will have caring families, in which they can grow safely and fulfil their potential. Barnardos is committed to realising this vision.

Barnardos delivers comprehensive programs that focus on multiple issues such as health, welfare, education and environment. There is a great need to continue to develop these programs that address the growing needs of the Australian community and we need your
help to make this a reality.

For more information please call our Donor Relations Manager on 1800 061 000

^{1 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) Canberra: AIHW 2006. Child protection Australia 2004-2005.}

01_Important Decisions 02_Barnardos Persistent for Change 03_Adoption and Star of Wonder 04_Disturbed and Fractured Attachment 05_NSW Government Inquiry into Child Protection Services 06_Free Dental Treatment 07_Gifts with a Difference - Helping Australia's Children