We take a proactive, kaupapa Māori approach to engaging tamariki and rangatahi in Māori-medium
early childhood centres and Kura. Partnering with Kōhanga Reo, Māori Health Providers, NGOs and
community groups, we co-develop bespoke oral health programmes that are grounded in Te Ao Māori and shaped by the aspirations of each hāpori.

Importantly, the communities we work with lead the design of their own programmes and define
outcomes that are meaningful to them. Our role is to walk alongside, offering evidence-based
practices and clinical guidance to ensure these initiatives are both culturally grounded and clinically effective in reducing the burden of poor oral health outcomes.
 

Sessions are interactive and affirming, using waiata, pūrākau, and tikanga Māori to teach tamariki
how to care for their niho/waha in a way that makes sense to them and their whānau. On-site screenings
with parental consent, and preventative treatments like fluoride varnish and sealants, are provided
to support early intervention.

But this mahi goes deeper than just clinical care, it’s about work with whānau in improving attitudes toward oral health, improving engagement with oral health services, normalising positive oral health behaviours, and encouraging intergenerational responsiveness. When tamariki see oral
health valued at kura, at home, and on the marae, it reinforces lifelong habits and builds a future
where prevention is a shared, everyday practice.

For rangatahi, we create space for kōrero around sugar, sports safety, orthodontics, and body confidence, making oral health relevant, relatable, and empowering.

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By supporting communities to lead their own solutions, we’re growing a generation of whānau who are more informed, more engaged, and better equipped to protect their smiles for life. This is oral health transformation, grounded in whakapapa, guided by mātauranga, and driven by the strength of our people.

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Hei oranga niho mō te iwi Māori

Te Ao Mārama. NZ Māori Dental Association - Te Ao Mārama

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