The Canadian province of Ontario has committed to expand the eligibility for its Healthy Smiles Ontario program. This expansion should offer improved access to free oral healthcare for up to 70,000 more children from families considered low-income.
Beginning in April, the program will offer cleanings, diagnostic services, and basic treatment. In August 2015, six existing dental programs will be combined into one, making it easier for families of eligible children and youth to receive dental care.
These programs will improve access to care, according to Deb Matthews, Ontario's minister of health and long-term care.
"Good oral health is an important component of good overall health. That's why we have taken important steps to increase access to free dental services for more kids in low-income families and to make it easier for families to access oral health services," she stated in a release.
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