New dental programme targets underprivileged young people
A new dental programme is set to be introduced in Ottawa.
The programme will target adolescents and younger children from low income families in a bid to improve standards of oral health and reduce the cost of dental care in the future.
Ottawa Public Health announced that it has earmarked two million dollars for the new scheme, which will focus on preventative treatments. Dr Isra Levy, Medical Officer of Health, said that the money will be used to offer around ten thousand children routine preventative care, as well as providing them with oral health education sessions and general dental treatments.
Children will be treated at community health centres across the region and the health board will also join forces with four local schools. The aim of the scheme is to focus on oral health from an early age in order to improve standards and reduce the need for costly care down the line.
Preventative dental care has become a focus in many countries, as governments look for ways to cut the cost of medical and dental services. Treatments, such as sealants and fluoride varnish help to strengthen and protect the teeth, making them more resistant to decay. The educational sessions will help to teach young people about oral hygiene, healthy eating and the importance of visiting a dentist on a regular basis. Many young people are unaware of the effect their diet has on their teeth and many dentists blame their sugary diet on increased rates of tooth decay and erosion.
The programme is set to launch towards the end of the year; health officials hope that the scheme will be funded on a long-term basis in order to make a significant difference to standards of oral health amongst young people.
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