As we age our oral health can greatly impact our overall well-being, particularly because seniors are more prone to dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, and more. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help prevent these issues from developing or worsening and improve their quality of life. This is why access to dental care is essential in ensuring that seniors can maintain good oral health and overall well-being as they age.
Programs That Help Seniors Access Oral Health Care
There are a few government-funded programs that allow seniors aged 65+ to access oral health care.
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
The CDCP is a new government-funded program that aims to provide more affordable and easily accessible dental care services to a wide range of eligible Canadians. As of September 2024, all applications are now open for seniors aged 65 and benefits can be coordinated with the OSDCP and other programs. To meet eligibility:
- Not have dental insurance through your workplace or a family member’s workplace
- Not have pension or a family member’s pension
- Not have purchased a group plan from an insurance company
- Have an estimated family net income of less than $90,000
- Be a Canadian resident
- Have filed your taxes for the previous year
Covered services will include:
- Cleaning, scaling, including root scalings, and polishing
- Exams
- Fillings
- Repairs
- Root canal treatments
- Partial and complete dentures
- Tooth extractions
- Some orthodontic services will be added in 2025
Providing Services Under the CDCP is Not Mandatory
It is not required by dentists to take part in the CDCP, therefore, before booking a dental appointment, make sure the provider you are looking to visit is taking part in the program. DentiFlow in Thornhill is proud to take part in the program and looks forward to taking care of your smile! For a CDCP-approved dental clinic in Thornhill, call (416) 519-5973 today.
How to Maintain Your Oral Health as You Age
Maintaining your oral health through every stage of life is important, but it can be even more important as we age. As we age and our bodies change, so do our teeth and gums. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy mouth:
Brush & Floss Regularly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Visit The Dentist Regularly
Regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health as you age. Your dentist can detect any issues early on and provide treatments to prevent them from worsening.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Therefore, make sure fluoride is listed as an ingredient in your toothpaste.
Stay Hydrated
As you age you may particularly experience dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles.
Consider Dental Implants or Dentures
If you’re missing teeth, it’s important to discuss tooth replacement options to continue maintaining proper oral function and prevent bone loss and facial structure changes. Consult with your dentist about the best options for you.