As a qualified clinician who has completed studies in dental hygiene and dental therapy, Kate in her training specialised in learning communication techniques to provide child-friendly treatment.
Her specific training in dealing with fearful patients also enables her to provide effective hygiene treatment for the elderly and individuals with special needs.
The newest member of the dental team at Seymour Health will work together with the dentists to provide routine oral health care for children and adults.
Kate’s role also helps to promote oral health and preventive dental practices among school children and the broader community.
A visit to the oral health therapist will usually involve an examination and cleaning of teeth and gums, while checking for decay, gingivitis and other oral diseases.
However, Kate will also take time to discuss how to properly care for teeth; adapting her communication approach to help each patient understand the importance of good oral hygiene and correct teeth-brushing to help community members of all ages.
“It’s important for parents to remember everything in their child’s mouth (teeth, gums and diet) can affect their general health and speech,” Kate said.
“There is never a wait list for children; if your child is in pain, please ring and we will fit you in as soon as possible.
“But most importantly, children need to have routine examinations to avoid any nasty surprises with decay and further complications.”
Dental services are free for children aged up to 17 years who have, or are dependents of, healthcare/pension concession card holders or for children who are eligible for Medicare Child Dental Benefit Scheme.
All two- to 17-year-olds are eligible if they receive Family Tax Benefit A or other relevant Australian Government payments.
However, a co-payment of $33.50 is required for children without a healthcare card or CDBS aged two to 12 years. The fee per family will not exceed $134.
Kate Harcourt is available on site two days per week (Wednesday and Friday) at Seymour Health Dental Service.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 5793 6126.
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