Seniors are more prone to dental decay, gum disease and oral cancer than any other groups, so it is important to have regular dental check ups. Untreated dental issues can lead to more serious problems in the future, including chronic disease.
If your are unable to afford care, the ONTARIO SENIORS DENTAL CARE PROGRAM (OSDCP) may be right for you.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
You may be eligible if you:
*Are 65 years of age or older
*Are a resident of Ontario
*Have an annual net income of $19,300 or less for a single person
Or a combined annual net income of $32,300 or less for a couple.
*Have no access to any other form of dental benefits
(eg. Private insurance or other government programs)
WHAT SERVICES ARE COVERED?
*Examinations and assessments
*Preventive services (cleanings)
*Restorative services to repair broken teeth and cavities
*X-rays
*Oral surgery to remove teeth and abnormal tissue
*Endodontic services ( root canals)
*Periodontal services to treat gum conditions and diseases
*Partial coverage is available for dentures
WHERE IS THE DENTAL TREATMENT PROVIDED?
The 2 sites currently available in this area are:
Kitchener Downtown Community Health Centre (KDCHC)
44 Francis St. S. Kitchener, Ontario. 519-745-4404
2. Langs Community Health Centre (LCHC)
11455 Concession Rd., Cambridge, Ontario 519-6653-1470
HOW DO I APPLY?
There are several options available for applying to OSDCP:
1. Apply online at ontario.ca/SeniorsDental or
2. Print, fill out and mail your application to:
OSDCP, Station P, PO Box 159, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S7 or
3. Phone us the Woolwich Community Health Centre at 10 Parkside Dr., St Jacobs, to arrange to pick up an application and/or get support with completing your application.
Our OSDCP phone line is 519-664-3447 ext#223
Please leave your name, phone number and a brief message and we will return your call as soon as possible.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM APPROVED?
Once your application has been approved, you will be mailed a welcome package and a dental card which you will need to bring to your appointment. You can then call either Kitchener Downtown Community Health Centre or Langs Community Health Centre and set up an appointment time for your initial exam.
Remember you can always call us if you have and questions and keep smiling :)
Margret Gohl, RDH
Oral Health Peer Worker
Woolwich Community Health Centre
519-664-3794 ext#223