A Whāngarei toddler who was in daily pain from rotten teeth was sent home to wait it out for at least five months on children's paracetamol and antibiotics.
Ivy Dyas was born with a condition that means her teeth are susceptible to decay and is one of thousands of New Zealand children on long waiting lists for treatment for serious dental work.
Her mother, Tari Williams, started to take her through the public system in August last year, before being referred to a hospital specialist in January.
She was shocked to be told about the wait for treatment and eventually went private last week with the help of her family. Tari Williams says even though Ivy can't talk properly, it was clear what she was going through.
Rowan Quinn has the story.
