Local dentist advocating for province to invest in Healthy Smiles program

The Ontario Dental Association (ODA) is pushing for the province to invest in public dental programs.

The ODA submitted a $50 million budget request in support of Healthy Smiles Ontario. The program provides dental care for kids under the age of 17 from low-income families. Over 500,000 children are eligible for the program and only 254,000 are getting treatment. 

Dr. Kim Hansen, Prescott dentist and ODA President, says he met with Premier Doug Ford in December to discuss the funding gap. He noted the province has three other major dental programs, for low-income adults, people with disabilities and individuals with complex medical conditions. Dr. Hansen explained the existing programs have been around for decades, but funding hasn’t increased. 

He says the $50 million investment, over two years, will help countless kids across the province. 

Dr. Hansen noted it’s a highly sought after program and one that requires more funding, to ensure kids can access dental care. 

He explained follow-up meetings with the premier are in the works and the ODA will continue to advocate for the Healthy Smiles program.