Please read the following information we have received from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand regarding the Child and Adolescent Oral Health Service.

News and radio articles report delays in health services due to workforce vacancies, sickness and the impact of COVID-19. These issues have impacted almost all health services and providers, including the Child and Adolescent Oral Health Service.

The Child and Adolescent Oral Health Service is currently operating at reduced capacity. Many tamariki are waiting up to two years between examinations. We recognise that this is not ideal, however with regular brushing and a healthy diet the risks of tooth decay are vastly reduced. If needed, this link has videos on tooth brushing for pēpē and young children https://www.nzda.org.nz/public/resources/oral-health-videos. The plan is return to providing a normal service as and when circumstances allow.

In the meantime should there be any oral health concerns then the service can still be contacted via 0800 825 583 (0800 TALK TEETH) or email OralHealth@midcentral.govt.nz and where indicated, an appointment will be made. Also, if an appointment is made and can no longer be kept, please let the service know to reschedule so the time can be used for another child.

If there are any queries or concerns regarding this information please phone 0800 825 583 or email OralHealth@midcentral.govt.nz

Yours sincerely

Lee Turner                                                                                                                              Operations Lead Community                                                                                                                Te Uru Pā Harakeke – Healthy Women Children and Youth