Home Tag: "dental care" (Page 20)

Tag: dental care

Does a Lack of Access to Fluoridated Water Affect Children’s Oral Health?
13Mar
Further research into the topic of Water Fluoridation has recently taken place. The research sought to find out if a lack of access to fluoridated water impacted oral health in children. When compared with children that did have access to fluoridated water, there were concerning findings.

Water Fluoridation is often considered a controversial subject, but research has consistently shown that its impact on children’s oral health is very positive.

The results of further research into the topic has recently been released, which looked at the oral health of children that have no access to fluoridated water [1].

Background

Water fluoridation refers to the action of adding a small concentration of Fluoride to the public water supply [2]. This is done as a means of protection from cavities, with research showing a strong connection between fluoridated water and less tooth decay [2].

Fluoride is a key ingredient in toothpaste. Therefore, by adding it in small concentrations to the public water supply, the intention is to assist in protecting teeth.

However, water fluoridation can be a controversial topic. For example, its use is banned in many countries, mainly due to concerns of potential over-exposure to fluoride, the ethics behind adding something to the public water supply and the lack of choice given to citizens [3].

Water fluoridation was first introduced in Australia in 1953 [4]. Given the size of Australia, not all parts of the nation have access to fluoridated water.

The Research

A team of researchers from La Trobe University carried out a new study. Subsequently, the findings were published in the Australian Journal of Rural Health [1].

The research involved looking at the state of Victoria – a vast state located in south-eastern Australia. They found that one-third of rural towns in the state that have populations of over 1,000 do not have access to fluoridated water [1].

The study involved looking at the oral health profiles of rural towns that did not have water fluoridation. Indicators like preventable hospitalisations due to dental conditions, tooth decay levels and filled or missing teeth were all noted [1].

Then, these levels were then compared with the state average of Victoria – whose large cities and towns nearly all have access to fluoridated water. The idea was to then compare the figures.

The results showed a clear disparity between the two data sets – with the authors noting a “significant” difference between non-fluoridated and fluoridated areas [1].

Overall, the main finding was that those in non-fluoridated areas had much higher than average preventable hospital admissions linked to oral health in children aged 0-9 years [1].

Additionally, more than 50% of children aged 0-12 living in these non-fluoridated towns had above average rates of decayed, missing and filled teeth. This percentage rose to 78% for children aged 0-5 [1].

This clearly shows that water fluoridation has a big impact. The above statistics show that children of all ages in non-fluoridated areas immediately have disadvantages in terms of their oral health in comparison to children in fluoridated areas.

The researchers found that this lack of water fluoridation meant that almost 150,000 residents across 203 towns were having their teeth impacted. Furthermore, children were impacted the most [1].

Author comments

The authors were concerned at these findings. Lead author Dr. Virginia Dickson-Swift discussed the findings. She urged officials to take action, saying that water fluoridation is “supported by overwhelming scientific evidence” [4].

Continuing, Dickson-Swift said that water fluoridation is “internationally recognized as one of the most successful public health interventions over the past 20 years, supported by groups like the World Health Organization and the Australian Dental Association” [4].

Moreover, Dickson-Swift also pointed out that water fluoridation is a “cost-effective and equitable initiative” [4]. The authors point out that for every dollar spent on fluoridation, $7-$18 is saved in avoidance of treatment costs [4].

Given the benefits involved, there is hope that local governments will advocate for improved access to water fluoridation. The statistics emanating from this study certainly show there is a clear disparity in oral health that should be addressed quickly.

Thinking points…

1) If you do have access to fluoridated water, this doesn’t mean you can neglect your oral health. While fluoridated water certainly assists with oral health, it can’t replace strong oral hygiene, which includes regular toothbrushing and flossing. Remember too to regularly visit a dental clinic for a check-up, as this will provide a dentist with the chance to review your oral health. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

2) Not everywhere has access to fluoridated water. You can always contact your local utility company for information on the public water supply, including information on if it is fluoridated or not. You may also share this article and these findings with anyone you know that has doubts about water fluoridation. Why not also discuss this article with your immediate family and friends, and see what you all think about the topic!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Dickson-Swift, V., Crocombe, L., Bettiol, S., & Bracksley-O’Grady, S. (2023). Access to community water fluoridation in rural Victoria: It depends where you live…. The Australian Journal of Rural Health. (Pre-publication issue). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/ajr.12973.

[2] Iheozor-Ejiofor, Z., Worthington, H. V., Walsh T., O’Malley, L., Clarkson, J. E., Macey, R., Alam, R., Tugwell, P., Welch, V., & Glenny, A-M. (2015). Water fluoridation for the prevention of dental caries. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 18 (6): CD010856. DOI: https:/www.doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD010856.pub2.

[3] Generation95 Staff. (2021). Water Fluoridation Debate: Should Fluoride Be Added to Public Water?. Available: https://www.generation95.com/water-fluoridation-debate-should-fluoride-be-added-to-public-water/. Last accessed: 10th March 2023.

[4] La Trobe University. (2023). Lack of fluoride in rural areas impacting children. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-03-lack-fluoride-rural-areas-impacting.html. Last accessed: 10th March 2023.

What Is Alberta University’s Specialized Dental Program? What Are Its Benefits?
5Mar
A unique program at the University of Alberta’s School of Dentistry is providing specialized training for dentists, while providing free dental care to patients. This combination is proving very popular, and provides many benefits to all parties. For patients, they get free dental care, while dentists get crucial training, and the chance to specialize in certain areas.

The University of Alberta are helping many people all in one go with a specialized program – with dentists being trained whilst providing free dental care to patients.

The program is ran by the University of Alberta’s School of Dentistry. Their conscious IV sedation program runs five times a year, and provides the general public with free check-ups and simple fillings [1].

The program

As mentioned, this is a specialized program ran by the School of Dentistry at the University of Alberta. It is an entirely unique program.

The program gives licensed practicing dentists the chance to attain certification or specialization requirements [1]. For example, those looking to specialize in maxillofacial surgery have a chance to hone their skills in this area.

Each dentist sees a minimum of 21 patients over the five days [1]. Year-on-year, there will be different cohorts, with a new range of dentists partaking each year.

Dentists pay approximately $22,000 in tuition fees to be part of the program [1]. While this is a high cost, it provides invaluable experience which can provide long-term benefits to them.

The benefits

This program is helpful for many people. Dentists are able to specialize in certain areas, which will mean a greater number of dental professionals will be in the Canadian workforce.

Meanwhile, it is well-known that dental fees can be a significant barrier to many in accessing oral care in Canada [2]. Therefore, for the public, this program can benefit them by giving them the chance to receive basic cleanings, standard check-ups and simple fillings – all free of charge [1]!

Laura Robbins is a member of the public that goes to the clinic three times a year. After struggling to pay for dental care, she used this program, and has been delighted with it [1].

Robbins told CTV News Edmonton that “it saves a lot of money”, and that “you get the best of the best” [1]. Continuing, she says that “you are put to sleep, you wake up an hour later, and your mouth doesn’t hurt”, before adding that “you just walk out, and you are done” [1].

As Robbins’ explanation shows, it is a very straightforward system. The patient doesn’t even have to be awake for it – making it very easy for the patient, while giving the dentist plenty of time to finetune their skills.

Comments from the University

Dr. James Yacyshyn is the Continuing Dental Education Director at the School of Dentistry. Yacyshyn commented on the program, saying that “it ends up being a pretty big charitable care initiative” [1].

Yacyshyn says that “patients are saving a lot” – referring to the cost saving element of the plan [1]. Moreover, he also commented that “especially given the cost of care and access to care being the challenge it is these days, it’s nice being a part of this” [1].

While Yacyshyn has admitted that the dentists are making “a huge financial commitment”, he has noted that “it’s a really great program” [1]. Furthermore, he says that the dentists are told that their goal “is to always advance how you are taking care of your patients in practice in your respective community” [1].

Overall, this program can clearly benefit many people, and will hopefully continue to do so. With the success of this program apparent, many other Universities may adopt similar programs in the future.

Thinking points…

1) As mentioned in the article above, cost can be a big barrier to accessing dental fees. However, here at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, our prices are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Therefore, our fees are fully transparent, reliable and trustworthy. You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca. We would love you to visit us in our Calgary dental clinic soon!

2) Looking after your oral health is very important! The best way of keeping your oral health strong is to have excellent oral hygiene, which includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and eating healthily. You should also ensure that you have at least two check-ups each year. This will allow a dentist to examine your dental health, and provide tailored advice. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at [clinic], we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Robb, J. (2023). ‘Patients are saving a lot’: U of A dental training program offers free procedures. Available: https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/patients-are-saving-a-lot-u-of-a-dental-training-program-offers-free-procedures-1.6289979. Last accessed: 3rd March 2023.

[2] Thompson, B., Cooney, P., Lawrence, H., Ravaghi, V., & Quinonez, C. (2014). Cost as a barrier to accessing dental care: findings from a Canadian population-based study. Journal of Public Health Dentistry. 74 (3): p210-218. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.1111/jphd.12048.

Is There a Link Between Sleep Apnea and Oral Health Problems?
5Feb
Recent research has found that there appears to be a link between Sleep Apnea and oral health problems. Sleep apnea affects many people, but as well as posing a risk to physical health, it also impacts oral health. The research suggests those with sleep apnea are more prone to oral health problems, which is important knowledge to have.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a common condition which affects people in their sleep. In worrying but important news, research suggests that the condition is linked to low bone strength in adults [1].

This has an impact on our oral health, as when bones become more brittle, they are easier to break, chip or crack. Therefore, those who have sleep apnea should take extra care with their oral health.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition that involves a person’s breathing stopping and starting while they sleep [2]. They will also typically snore loudly and frequently wake up during the night.

Someone with sleep apnea may also feel tired during the day. It can cause low levels of oxygen in the body, inflammation, heart disease and high blood pressure [2]. Therefore, it can become a dangerous condition.

Treatment is available, and it is a common condition. However, it is a condition that impacts health in many ways – including our oral health.

The Research

The research was conducted by the University at Buffalo [1]. Subsequently, their work was published in The Journal of Craniomandibular and Sleep Practice [1].

The research involved 38 adults participating. Half of the adults had a diagnosis of sleep apnea, while the other half didn’t [1]. This provided the researchers with two distinct groups to compare.

Then, the researchers used a type of X-ray called “cone beam computed tomography” [1]. This was done as a way of measuring bone density in the head and neck of the participants.

They were specifically looking at the left and right lateral regions of the 1st cervical vertebrae and dens of the 2nd cervical vertebrae [1]. The researchers wanted to see how these two groups compared, and notice any patterns.

In order to ensure that the results were not skewed, the researchers controlled their findings for age, sex and weight [1]. This ensured valid results that would be relevant to the wider public.

The scans showed that the participants with sleep apnea had significantly lower bone-mineral density compared to those without the condition [1].

This is concerning, with the authors pointing out that from a dental perspective, a lower bone-mineral density can cause teeth to become loose, dental implants to fail and teeth to become more brittle.

What this means

This research shows that it is very important for individuals with sleep apnea to pay more attention to their oral health, as they become more prone to dental problems.

Thikriat Al-Jewair, an Associate Professor of Orthodontics and senior author of this study, commented on the findings [3]. She says that the findings “offers new evidence” on the connection between sleep apnea and low bone-mineral density, with the study due to “have several implications for orthodontic treatment” [3].

Furthermore, Al-Jewair says that the techniques employed in this study could “become an integral part of daily orthodontic practice and could be used as a screening tool for low bone-mineral density” [3]. Therefore, this would allow dental professionals to inform patients of potential bone-mineral density problems.

Aside from oral health, having a low bone-mineral density can be a sign of Osteoporosis, which involves the bones becoming weak and brittle. This can have physical health implications like increased risk of fractures.

The authors of the study did caution that further research, including with larger sample sizes, is needed [1]. Nevertheless, these are important findings, and highlight the importance of those with sleep apnea taking extra care with their oral health.

Thinking points…

1) Do you have sleep apnea? If so, this is an important article for you, as it shows the potential risks to your oral health. This research shows that you should take extra care with your oral health. We would recommend telling your dentist about your condition, as this can guide their treatment plan for you. You could do so at your next appointment!

2) While many of us don’t have sleep apnea, it is important to remember that we can’t become comfortable with our oral health. We all need to ensure that we have strong oral hygiene. A crucial part of this is to attend a dental clinic for regular check-ups. These check-ups allow a dentist to perform a thorough assessment of your oral health, and recommend treatment if necessary. We recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Daljeet, M., Warunek, S., Covell, D. A., Monegro, A., Giangreco, T., & Al-Jewair, T. (2022). Association between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and bone mineral density in adult orthodontic populations. The Journal of Craniomandibular & Sleep Practice. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/08869634.2022.2142724.

[2] NHS. (2022). Sleep apnoea. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/. Last accessed: 3rd February 2023.

[3] Robinson, M. (2023). Obstructive sleep apnea tied to weaker bones and teeth in adults. Available: https://www.buffalo.edu/ubnow/stories/2023/01/bone-density-sleep-apnea.html. Last accessed: 3rd February 2023.

University of Alberta Announces New Dentistry Elective: What Benefit Will It Have?
29Jan
In exciting news, the University of Alberta has announced that a new elective for its dentistry courses will soon commence. The elective gives students a chance to gain experience in dental clinics across Alberta, providing them with valuable knowledge and exposure to real life situations. The hope is that both students and the wider healthcare system will benefit from the elective.

The University of Alberta has announced the creation of a new elective for its Dentistry courses – which will provide students with valuable in-person experience.

This exciting announcement will result in dental students getting strong exposure to real life situations, while learning from dental professionals. It will also benefit the wider public.

About the elective

The University of Alberta have announced that the course will run for two weeks [1]. It has the name of Advance Elective Experiences, with the code DDS 542 [1].

The elective will be open to fourth-year students on the Dentistry program. They will have the chance to visit community dental clinics. Therefore, this will allow the students to see the various treatments and different approaches adopted by different dental clinic.

The students will be placed across Alberta. For example, some students will study their elective at a Calgary dental clinic, while others will attend an Edmonton dental clinic.

What benefits will the elective have?

There are numerous benefits, both to the wider healthcare community and the students themselves. The students will get valuable experience, and the community will contribute to the development of more dental professionals – something that is badly needed!

Dr. Suzy Depledge works in the University of Alberta’s Dentistry department as its Care Director. She led the development of the elective, and has commented on it [1].

Depledge has said that the course will enable the students to be “ready for private practice by the time they’re in fourth year” [1]. Moreover, “it gives students the opportunity to explore what the direction of their career path might be” [1].

Depledge continued by saying that this elective represents a “unique learning opportunity” for students [1]. Furthermore, she says that past students have gone “to pediatric dentist offices, or an oral surgery practice” – which helps students to see if there is a specific area they would like to specialize in [1].

These visits have been completely optional in the past, and often hard to seek for the students due to low awareness. However, these community visits have now become a formal elective.

Depledge has said that the students receive mentorship, which gives them a chance to reflect on which career they want, and give them a chance to identify the skills they need to develop [1].

An example case

The Dentistry department have been building relationships with local community clinics, ready for the rollout of the elective. There have already been some successful partnerships.

Dr. Deb Crowfoot is a dentist in Alberta. Crowfoot has had students working with him before. He has said that the experience is very useful, saying that the students “get to see how it’s done in the real world”, while seeing “a wide variety of dentistry” [1].

One of the students who worked with Crowfoot, Ed Gu, remarked that it was “especially interesting to have an opportunity to see how a dental clinic” works – with Gu visiting a First Nations community, offering an experience that many don’t get [1].

Another student, James Kwan, said that his visit “completely re-shaped my future plans and goals” – which summarizes the impact these visits can have [1].

The future

With the elective upcoming, you might just find that at your next appointment, that you will see a new face!

These students are the future of dentistry, so playing a part in their development will be very valuable to the future of healthcare in Alberta.

Fourth-year students at the University will have the opportunity to complete the elective right away. There will be 52 students taking part in the elective [1].

Thinking points…

1) The creation of this elective is very exciting! There is a big demand for dental services across Alberta. But it is also very important to be part of this demand! Therefore, remember to attend your local dental clinic for check-ups and any subsequent treatment. You could book now – you may even see a student learning from your dentist!

2) Electives and programs like this are crucial in helping with the development of dental professionals for the future. For example, here at our Calgary Dental Clinic Savanna Dental, our staff have all gone through extensive training. This training helps them to look after the oral health needs of our patients. We would love you to come and visit us, see more about us on our homepage https://savannadentalclinic.ca!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] University of Alberta. (2023). New dentistry elective lets students explore career options in the dental community. Available: https://www.ualberta.ca/school-of-dentistry/about-us/dentistrynews/2023/01/new-dentistry-elective-lets-students-explore-career-options-in-the-dental-community.html. Last accessed: 27th January 2023.

Dental Assistant Shortage in Canada: What Major Step Has Just Been Taken?
23Jan
Dental assistants have been added to Canada’s Federal Skilled Worker program, which will enable dental assistants from around the world to immigrate to Canada. This should have an excellent impact on Canada’s healthcare service, as it will improve both the quality and quantity of dental assistants – who are a key part of dental clinics.

In exciting news for the dental industry and wider healthcare system, dental assistants can now immigrate to Canada through Express Entry [1].

This news comes following the announcement that the job was added to those that qualify for immigration to Canada through the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program [2].

With dental services in high demand, this news will come as a boost for the Canadian healthcare system, which will hopefully become better equipped thanks to this news.

New Occupations

The FSW program has been in operation for many years, and aims to attract highly-skilled professionals to Canada. Only certain jobs, such as Chemists and Doctors, qualify under the program.

In November, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada added 16 new jobs to its list of eligible occupations. Among these jobs was the role of Dental assistant – with the National Occupational Classification code of 33100 [1].

The important role of dental assistants

Dental assistants are a crucial element of the Canadian healthcare system. They help in many different ways, often without the patient realizing.

Dental assistants help dentists, hygienists and dental therapists perform their routine jobs. They help with regular check-ups, while also assisting during treatments.

Their day-to-day lives include doing tasks such as sterilizing and maintaining instruments and equipment, helping with fillings, taking X-rays, polishing teeth and assisting with fluoride applications among other tasks [1].

Moreover, many dental assistants are trained to do tasks like administering anaesthesia, removing temporary crowns and removing dental sutures. Therefore, they can help in many ways.

Moreover, they are also trained to perform administrative duties in dental clinics. Therefore, they are in high demand, such are their importance and versatility.

The positive impact on Canada

The recent addition of the Canadian dental benefit is expected to result in more people visiting dental services in Canada – something which already has a strong demand.

Dr. Brian Barrett of the Dental Association of Prince Edward Island commented on this news. He says that a shortage of dental assistants exists in Canada, and that without an influx of new assistants, “the problem will be here for several years” [1].

Therefore, by having more dental assistants, hopefully dental clinics around the nation will be able to increase their output, leading to more patients being seen.

This will hopefully result in improved treatment outcomes for patients. Consequently, there are many benefits to having more dental assistants in Canada.

Anyone interested in following this pathway can use the Express Entry system to apply for immigration to Canada. This offers a faster approach towards immigration.

An expression of interest is necessary, while it is also worth familiarizing yourself with the Canadian points-based system that is used to rank candidates against one another [3].

Thinking points…

1) Have you ever considered becoming a dental assistant? Or do you have a friend abroad that works as a dental assistant and would be interested in immigrating to Canada? Why not share this article with them, or look further into the profession yourself? It can be a rewarding career that is well worth considering!

2) A shortage of dental assistants suggests that more and more people are going to the dentist on a regular basis. Therefore, take this as an opportunity to think about your oral health, and consider if it is time to make an appointment for a dental check-up. Dental check-ups are crucial, and can ensure that your oral health is strong. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of dental treatment options and services.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Singer, C. R. (2023). Dental Assistants Can Now Immigrate To Canada Through Express Entry. Available: https://www.immigration.ca/dental-assistants-can-now-immigrate-to-canada-through-express-entry/. Last accessed: 20th January 2023.

[2] Singer, C. R. (2021). Who Qualifies for Canadian Permanent Residence/Skilled Worker Immigration?. Available: https://www.immigration.ca/who-qualifies-for-canadian-permanent-residence-skilled-worker-immigration. Last accessed: 20th January 2023.

[3] Singer, C. R. (2021). Canada Express Entry Immigration. Available: https://www.immigration.ca/canada-express-entry-immigration. Last accessed: 20th January 2023.

Why Are Alberta Dentists Concerned About the New Federal Dental Benefit?
15Jan
Dentists in Alberta have voiced their concern over the number of applications that have been received for the new federal dental benefit in the province. After an initial strong uptake, applications have slowed recently. Therefore, many dentists across Alberta have questioned what is causing this, and have made some suggestions for the future.

The new Canadian Dental Benefit program was launched a few weeks ago following months of planning and anticipation.

Whilst there was a strong uptake to begin with, dentists in Alberta have become concerned at how applications for the benefit have somewhat stalled recently [1].

It is making dentists across Alberta question what is behind this recent lessening of interest, and how this can be turned around.

The Dental Benefit

The Canadian Dental Benefit was launched on 1st December 2022 [2]. It is open to middle and low-income families with a child under the age of 12.

Eligible families can claim up to $650 per qualifying child each year towards dental costs [2]. This is dependent on income.

Those who wish to apply can do so online, accessing: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit/how-apply.html. Completing an application is a requirement of the process.

Concern among Alberta’s dentists

As mentioned, the uptake has been lower than expected. But as Dr. Jeffrey Ma of the Friends and Family Dental Health in Calgary dental clinic note, “the response has been a little bit lacklustre” [1].

Ma has suggested that the lacklustre response could be due to a mixture of confusion and lack of awareness [1]. Ma says that it is “a fantastic program”, but that the “awareness just isn’t there yet” [1].

Moreover, Ma believes “people are a little bit confused” [1]. The eligibility requirements have proven to be confusing for some, with many unsure on if they qualify or not.

Ma has suggested that the Government should step in, with the advice that they should “simplify the program and have it extended to cover all children” [1]. This would certainly clear up any confusion.

The Future

Dr. Ma has also said that the program will help to save money in the long run – which is a benefit to not only the public but also the government. However, he has argued that the government should do more.

He cites the example of how he sees families “that really care about their children’s dental health, but their finances don’t necessarily allow it”, meaning that they are unable to afford dental care [1].

At the moment, due to the benefit being related to income, those just over the threshold, and potentially even bigger earners, may be struggling to pay for private dental insurance for their children, in the absence of the benefit.

This adds more weight to the suggestion that the government should make the program available to more people. In fact, Ma has said that this is a group that “sure would benefit from having what this program can offer” [1].

Recommendations

Bruce Yaholinitsky is spokesperson for the Alberta Dental Association. He has recommended that parents set up an account with the Canadian Revenue Agency. Then, after paying up front for the services, they will eventually have money transferred to their account [1].

But Yaholinitsky has warned that “the government will be checking randomly on these patients to make sure they’ve been using it for dental care” [1].

There have been other suggestions too. Calgary dentist Dr. Brad Krusky has called on the government to make changes to the approach of the benefit [1]. For example, Krusky has said that funds should be injected into the existing system, which could benefit a larger number of people, including “kids from families who have a little bit more income than the current level, but are still not able to afford the care” [1].

Krusky has said that while the program is a step in the right direction, preventative care is still important [1]. He says that “I would invest in prevention much more than I would invest billions of dollars that are going into this program” [1].

The National Plan

Eventually, the Canadian National Dental Healthcare plan will be implemented. This is due to take place over a three-year period, with a full rollout in 2025.

This will benefit more people than the current program does, although a strong start has been made. Hopefully, the oral health of Canadian citizens will greatly improve in the next few years as the full benefit of the plan is felt.

Thinking points…

1) The article above notes that the full rollout of the Canadian National Dental Plan will not happen until 2025. It can be tempting to try and wait until then to tackle any outstanding dental issues. But unfortunately, dental problems don’t get better on their own. Therefore, ensure that you make regular visits to your dentist, who can carry out check-ups to review the state of your oral health. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) As we mentioned earlier, many eligible people are unsure if the dental benefit is relevant to them. We would recommend either speaking to us at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental – as we can offer advice, or visiting the Canadian Revenue Agency’s website. While visiting us, we will also be happy to make you aware of the wide range of services we can provide! We would love to see you soon, visit our homepage for more https://savannadentalclinic.ca!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary Dental Clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Kury de Castillo, C. (2022). Alberta dentists raise concerns about new federal dental benefit. Available: https://globalnews.ca/news/9370178/calgary-dentists-concerns-federal-dental-benefit/. Last accessed: 13th January 2023.

[2] Ontario Dental Association. (2022). Canadian Dental Care Plan. Available: https://www.oda.ca/visiting-the-dentist/government-dental-programs/canadian-dental-care-plan/. Last accessed: 13th January 2023.