Saskatchewan has launched new programs that will increase access to preventive dental care services for preschool and school-age children at risk living in areas of the province with the highest need.
The provincial government allocated $1.4 million toward The Enhanced Preventive Dental Services Initiative, a program designed to improve children’s oral health and to reduce the need for surgery by focusing on disease prevention, health promotion and early childhood tooth decay.
Oral health assessments will be provided to all preschool children in the province. Children from age 6 months to 5 years, who are at risk of early childhood tooth decay, will be given 2 fluoride varnish applications per year. Dental sealants will be offered to students attending schools that have populations at risk.
New and expectant mothers in the high-risk regions will also receive consultations, to promote good oral health and ensure a healthy pregnancy and healthy development of their baby’s teeth. The initiative will expand to other areas across Saskatchewan in 2012.
For more details, see www.gov.sk.ca/news?newsId=dfbe744e-7363-4d6b-8f66-4568311cbd82