In the ACT, eligible adults can have dental check-ups and treatment through Canberra Health Services Dental. Canberra Health Services Dental has four adult dental clinics located at community health centres across the ACT:

• Belconnen Community Health Centre – 56 Lathlain Street, Belconnen.
• City Community Health Centre – 1 Moore Street, Canberra City.
• Gungahlin Community Health Centre – 57 Ernest Cavanagh Street, Gungahlin.
• Phillip Community Health Centre – 17 Corinna Street, Phillip.

Dental clinics are open Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 5:00pm. Closed Public Holidays.

What services do you provide?

Our services include:

• check-ups of your mouth, teeth, and gums, including x-rays if needed
• cleaning and fluoride treatment
• fillings
• tooth extractions
• removable dentures
• root canal on eligible teeth

We do not provide crowns, implants, braces, and some other services such as bridges.

Who can use this service?

ACT residents who are the primary holders of:

• a Services Australia issued Pension Concession or Health Care Card
• a Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Veteran Card (white and gold card only)
• an ACT Services Access card
• a Commonwealth Seniors Health card.

How do I make an appointment?

Call Central Health Intake on (02) 5124 9977 to book a dental appointment. Please have your Medicare and current Concession card details available when you call.

There are waiting lists for some adult restorative and denture services. To join the waiting list, visit your nearest community health centre or complete the electronic wait list placement form on https://www.canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au/services-and-clinics/services/dental-adult.

How much does it cost?

The costs for public dental care will depend on your circumstances. Co-payments may apply; this includes Gold Veteran Card holders.

• General dental services: There is a maximum payment per treatment plan. This does not include root canal therapy, splints, or denture work.
• Emergency dental services: Fees apply for an emergency appointment. Treatment of your most urgent dental problem will be done at this appointment. A new payment is required for each dental problem. Some eligible adults may be offered a voucher to attend one of the participating private providers to have their main problem looked at.
• Denture services: The cost of dentures depends on the type of denture you need. A denture repair has a minimum fee.

Tips for healthy teeth:

• To have good health, you must have a healthy mouth.
• Drink tap water to help keep your teeth healthy.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks to special occasions. This includes food and drinks with added sugar, honey, syrup, and fruit juice.
• Do not put babies and children to bed with a bottle. Bottle feeding through the night is linked to tooth decay.
• Brush your teeth every morning and night using a toothpaste that has fluoride in it. Use toothpaste that is suitable for your age.
• Clean between your teeth every day.
• Ask for help if you have trouble cleaning your teeth. Help others who might need help, such as children under eight years.
• The first dental check should be when your baby turns 12 months old. You can book sooner if you have any concerns.
• Have regular dental check-ups. Talk to your dental professional about how often to have a check-up. This is different for everyone. It depends on how well you look after your teeth, if you have had past or current problems with your teeth or gums, and any other health issues.
• Avoid smoking, vaping, tobacco products (like chewing tobacco) and limit drinking alcohol. They can hurt the health of your mouth. Talk to your dental professional for support quitting.

If you have any questions, please talk with your dental professional – CHI: (02) 5124 9977.