Geumcheon-gu Provides Dental Treatment Support for Vulnerable Children... Up to 2.5 Million Won per Child

Collaboration Between Public Health Centers, Local Children's Centers, and Dental Clinics

On August 17, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul (District Mayor Choi Ki-chan) announced the launch of its "2026 Child Dental Treatment Support Program," which provides comprehensive support from dental check-ups to treatments for children from vulnerable backgrounds who may postpone dental care due to financial constraints.

A child in Geumcheon District is receiving dental treatment. Provided by Geumcheon District.

This initiative is operated as a collaborative effort between Geumcheon-gu Public Health Center, regional child welfare and care institutions such as local children's centers, and local dental clinics. It focuses on the early detection of oral diseases in children from underprivileged families and connects them to appropriate treatments. Services are offered at every stage, from dental check-ups and oral health education to preventive dental care and dental treatments.

This year, a total of 17 local children's centers, as well as Dream Start, Hyemyeong Mayville, and Geumcheon Youth Center's afterschool programs, are participating. For participating children, the district provides oral health check-ups and education, and supports preventive care such as fluoride application and dental sealants to prevent cavities.

Children who require treatment, as identified by check-ups, are referred to one of 19 partner dental clinics. They can receive the necessary treatments, including fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions. The district offers support for dental treatment costs up to a limit of 400,000 won per child. If treatment costs exceed this limit, additional aid may be granted following a review by a local advisory committee.

A separate support system is also in place for children who cannot be treated at general dental clinics. If specialized care is needed due to behavioral or physical disabilities or complex oral health conditions, children are referred to Seoul National University Dental Hospital, with advanced treatment costs supported up to 2.5 million won per child.

The district emphasized that its efforts go beyond financial support for treatment; it has established a collaborative community system that leads from early detection through examinations to prevention and treatment. When child welfare and care organizations identify eligible children, the health center and regional treatment institutions coordinate check-ups and treatments, aiming to reduce disparities in oral health caused by financial circumstances.

District Mayor Choi Ki-chan stated, "Oral health in childhood forms the foundation for lifelong well-being, making prevention and early treatment essential. We will work closely with the local community so that no child is deprived of necessary dental care due to financial reasons, ensuring that all children can keep their healthy teeth and bright smiles."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.