Dental program expanded for children from low income families

Morning North6:36Ontario's free dental care plan for kids expanded

There will be more dental care access to Ontario kids from low income families. Dr. Roch St-Aubin is a Sudbury dentist. He joined us in studio to talk about the dental health situation in Sudbury.

The Ontario government will be expanding its free dental health care service to kids in low income families.

Healthy Smiles Ontario will provide services like free dental checkups, cleanings, x-rays and urgent oral health services for children and youth up to 17-years of age, from low-income households, says Sudbury Liberal MPP Glenn Thibeault,

The program will benefit many patientsdentist Dr. Roch St. Aubin sees atthe Sudbury Dentist Group.

"There were always some individuals who fell between the cracks," St Aubin said.

"They could not get the care free or subsidized and were having to pay out of their pocket."

Having access to dental care can make a difference for a child's future, addedThibeault.

"It is something thousands of Sudburians use on a regular basis. Being able to expand this program means that more children will get the dental care they need."

The expanded program will enable another 70,000children in the province to access dental care, he said.

St.Aubin said hefeels it's important for kids to get dental care because it helps them thrive in the future.

"Families should make sure they do every thing they can to keep their kids' mouths happy and healthy."