Compared to other parts of the body, people often ignore problems with their mouths. Bleeding and tender gums, oral pain, and mouth infections are common problems that are often ignored but can affect a person’s quality of life.
April is Oral Health Month. A time not only to focus on the importance of good oral health, but a time to consider the Dental Clinic here at the CHC, and see how we can help you achieve optimal oral health.
Since December 2009 the mission of our clinic has always been to provide dental care services in a supportive environment to those in need. We do welcome everyone to our clinic, but with a focus on those individuals on Ontario Works (OW), Community Outreach (for eligible residents of Northumberland County only), ODSP, HSO, and more recently the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP). For those individuals without access to dental coverage, we do offer a dental subsidy based on your income to make dental care more accessible.
Our Dental Clinic offers all the following services:
- Dental exams
- Cleanings
- X-rays
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Extractions
- Crowns
Unfortunately, there a number of low-income seniors in our community who are unaware of the OSDCP, and by providing the following overview, it is our hope to help reduce the barriers these individuals face to increase access to dental care.
One way we are helping is through the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP), a publicly funded dental care program for low-income seniors launched in November 2019.
OSDCP helps ensure seniors in our community receive regular dental care – an important consideration as seniors are at an increased risk for dental decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
Who is eligible for OSDCP?
- Ontario resident aged 65 and over
- Must have an annual income less than $19 300
- For couples the combined income must be less than $32 300
- Program applicants cannot have existing dental benefits
What dental services are covered by the program?
- Dental exams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, crowns, dentures
How long does the program run for?
- The benefit year for the program is August 1 to July 31. Enrolled participants will be re-evaluated for program eligibility and continued enrollment each year
Where can seniors apply?
- Seniors can visit www.ontario.ca/SeniorsDental to apply online or print the application form
- Application forms are also here at the CHC and Service Ontario offices
A provincial processing centre at the Ministry of Health reviews all application forms and notifies seniors who qualify for the program.
Once an application has been approved, a welcome package and dental card will be mailed to the senior.
To receive services, the senior must call the CHC or a designated OSDCP clinic to book an appointment. The dental card must be presented at each appointment.
Remember poor oral health can affect your overall health, impacting your physical, mental and social wellbeing.
The staff in our Dental Clinic are here to provide you with the services and education to help you achieve optimal oral health. We care not only about the health of your teeth – but your overall wellbeing.
Our CHC Dental Clinic can be reached at 905-885-2626 x208 or dentalclinic@porthopechc.ca.
