The provincial government has announced new funding to ensure people across the province can have access to life-changing dental care.
According to the province, 21 not-for-profit dental clinics throughout BC will benefit from the $2.8 million in new support over the next three years.
This funding to the BC Dental Association provides stability for the province’s not-for-profit dental clinics, helping offset costs, such as materials and dental lab fees, required to provide services to financially vulnerable people.
It also supports the purchase of equipment, such as sterilization and X-ray machines, dental instruments and pediatric equipment.
“Everyone should be able to visit the dentist and money shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing that care,” said Nicholas Simons, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.
“Having healthy teeth is about confidence, dignity and overall well-being. While we look forward to details on how Ottawa will join us in providing this critical service, we’re building a stronger province for everyone by making sure all British Columbians can put their best smile forward.”
In 2021, the not-for-profit clinics provided dental care to people with low incomes for free or at a reduced rate more than 47,000 times.
“We’re proud to support British Columbians and the not-for-profits that have supported people throughout the pandemic.,” said Niki Sharma, Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-Profits.
“Our government chooses to invest in people. This vital funding will ensure there is a place for families with low incomes, seniors and people to go to for urgent or routine dental care.”
In Victoria, the Cool Aid Community Health Centre Dental Clinic is one of these reduced cost, not-for-profit clinics, providing a range of dental services for those on social assistance, with disabilities, on a fixed or low income, who have First Nations status, with refugee status, and people who have parole services.
Basic services include examinations, x-rays, cleanings, fluoride varnish, fillings, extractions, root canal treatment, complete and partial dentures, and emergency care.
You can view a list of these clinics by region here.
