Introduction of Healthy Teeth Collaboration
Programme Background
To better serve the dental needs of adults with intellectual disability (ID), the Department of Health (DH) launched the Healthy Teeth Collaboration (HTC) in July 2018. Through participating non-governmental organisation (NGO) dental clinics, the programme provides free dental services for adults with ID. The programme has been extended to end of March 2027. The number of participating NGOs has increased to eight, and coverage has been expanded to include patients aged 18 or above with autism spectrum disorder.
Programme Content
Non-governmental organisation dental clinics will provide free oral check-ups, dental treatments and oral health education for adults with intellectual disability and/or, autism spectrum disorder.
Scope of Subsidised Services
- Radiographs
- Preventive treatment
- Treatment of gum diseases
- Fillings
- Extractions (including wisdom teeth)
- Pulp treatment
- Insertion / Removal of Crowns and Bridges
- Dentures
- Escort subsidy and transport subsidy
If dental treatments cannot be provided under behavioural management at clinic, arrangements will be made for applicant to receive dental treatments under conscious sedation, deep sedation or general anaesthesia at a designated collaborating private hospital or day procedure centre.
Target Beneficiaries
To apply for the services under Healthy Teeth Collaboration, persons with intellectual disability and /or with autism spectrum disorder (“the applicant”) must fulfil the following criteria:
- Holding valid Hong Kong Identity Card or Exemption from Registration Certificate; and
- Aged 18 or above; and
- Holding valid documentary proof certifying the disability category as “intellectual disability”, “mental handicap”, or “autism spectrum disorder”