Today, Mayor Olivia Chow announced a free mobile dental care program for the more than 2,600 residents of the 10 long-term care homes operated by the City of Toronto. Set to kick off later this month, this innovative program prioritizes the well-being and oral health of some of Toronto’s most vulnerable residents.
Staffed by experienced Toronto Public Health (TPH) dental and oral health service providers, the mobile dental vans will provide essential oral health services including preventive care, minimally invasive dentistry, restorative dentistry, oral surgery and dentures. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of dental needs while promoting better health outcomes and preventing potential hospital visits for pain management associated with oral health issues.
In 2023, TPH provided more than 61,600 dental appointments in community-based clinics. The TPH Dental and Oral Health Services program continues to expand care to vulnerable populations rooted in community partnerships to provide low-barrier access to services.
Oral health is a key component of overall health and wellness with poor oral health tied to chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stomach issues. More information on the TPH Dental and Oral Health Services program is available on the City’s webpage.
Funding for the mobile vans is provided by the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program.
Quotes:
“This new program will ensure that all residents at our long-term care homes receive the oral health care they need. This is how Toronto continues to be a leader in the delivery of high-quality dental care for vulnerable populations.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
“Our government is connecting seniors with faster, more convenient access to the services they need. With funding from the province, Toronto’s new mobile dental health program will help more seniors in long-term care connect to the right care in the right place: improving their quality of life, reducing avoidable trips to the emergency room and protecting our hospital capacity.”
– The Honourable Stan Cho, Ontario Minister of Long-Term Care
“Our government understands the critical relationship between oral health and overall well-being. This partnership with the City of Toronto will ensure residents within city-operated long-term care homes will have expanded access to quality dental care.”
– David Smith, MPP for Scarborough Centre
“We know that residents of long-term care homes face barriers to health and dental care. I want to thank the Government of Ontario for investing in providing access to this vital service that will improve the lives of our long-term care residents.”
– Councillor Michael Thompson (Scarborough Centre), Member, Toronto Board of Health
“Toronto Public Health provides dental care to residents across the city with funding support provided by the Government of Ontario. This partnership will provide much needed access to dental care and a better quality of life for our long-term care residents.”
– Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.