Monday, April 04, 2016
Grey Bruce Health Unit
Healthy Smiles Ontario - Healthy Smiles for Life
April is Oral Health Month. Public health wants every child to have a healthy smile for life. Dental surgery related to unhealthy teeth is the most common surgical procedure requiring anesthesia in childhood (Canadian Institute of Health Information, 2013). Good oral health habits, fluoridation and access to dental care help to make healthy smiles.
In January 2016, the province revised the Healthy Smiles Ontario program to combine six publically funded dental programs. The new Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program provides seamless enrolment to make it easier for children and youth to get free dental care. Children 17 and under are automatically eligible and enrolled in HSO when they or their family receives Ontario Works, Temporary Care Assistance, and Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities or the Ontario Disability Support Program.
Eligibility has also expanded. In the past, those with dental coverage did not qualify. Now, children with other dental insurance coverage are no longer excluded. Healthy Smiles Ontario may be used in combination with other dental plans.
To find out more about how you can help your child have a Healthy Smile for Life, contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit, at 519-376-9420, press 8 or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.
Media Contact:
Heather Prior
Registered Dental Hygienist
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext 1286
h.prior@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
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