With the 2026 school year about to begin, one in three children in New South Wales is entering school with preventable tooth decay, underscoring the urgent need for expanded, school-based dental prevention programs, the Australian Dental Association NSW (ADA NSW) says.

Recent NSW Health oral health data show that around 40% of NSW children aged 5–6 have untreated or experienced dental disease by school age, with significantly higher rates among disadvantaged communities. Aboriginal children, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and families in regional and remote areas bear a disproportionate share of this largely preventable disease.

“Tooth decay in early childhood isn’t just about cavities: it affects every part of a child’s life, from eating and sleeping to concentration and social confidence on their very first day of school,” said ADA NSW President Dr Mark Morrin.

Despite being largely preventable, childhood dental caries remains a leading health issue across NSW. Many families face barriers to early dental care due to concerns around cost, long public dental waiting lists and limited access to preventive care, particularly outside metropolitan centres.

“Right now, far too many NSW kids start school already behind because of tooth decay that could have been stopped early with simple, preventive care,” Dr Morrin said. “Investing in education backed with schools and families working together helps delivers equitable access to good oral health, particularly for children who most need support.”

ADA NSW is calling on the NSW Government to strengthen preventive oral health measures in schools and early learning settings. Key recommendations include:

• Regular dental screenings and check-up reminders, including promoting the CDBS for eligible families to access government-funded dental care
• Oral health education for children, parents and carers
• Promotion of water as the drink of choice and reduced access to and consumption of sugary drinks in canteens

“Prevention works with improving oral health but only if children have access to early care where they spend much of their day,” Dr Morrin added.

Some efforts are underway, which the ADA NSW has commended such as the NSW Health’s Primary Schools Mobile Dental Program which currently delivers free dental check-ups and preventive care to students across 11 Local Health Districts, helping reduce barriers to access. However, ADA NSW argues that prevention must go further and reach every child, in every community.

Untreated tooth decay can lead to pain, infection and even hospitalisation. National reporting shows dental conditions remain among the leading causes of hospital admission for young children in Australia, costing families and the health system dearly.

“Good oral health starts with building healthy habits and strong foundations before children even walk into the classroom.”