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Sarnia, ON –Teens under 18 years of age who have visible tooth decay or teeth that hurt may be eligible to receive FREE dental care.
During the month of December, the County of Lambton Children's Services Department, through Ontario's Children in Need of Treatment (CINOT) program, will focus on teens to create awareness of FREE dental services for those aged 13-17 years who cannot afford dental care.
"There are many teens in Sarnia-Lambton who have painful dental needs but cannot obtain dental care because of a variety of obstacles, such as not having enough money, not having insurance coverage or not knowing that FREE help may be available," said Connie McKay, Registered Dental Hygienist, with the Children's Services Department. "Everyone deserves a pain-free smile."
In Ontario, about 42% of families do not have dental insurance. Across Canada, 3.1 days of school, per 100 children, are missed due to dental problems.
CINOT provides free dental coverage to babies, children and teens under 18 years of age in need of urgent care. Dental care includes cleaning, fluoride, sealants, fillings, root canals, extractions, sedation and dental support and information.
In December, the Oral Health Assessment Team will visit all Lambton County high schools to offer free dental screening to students and to heighten the profile of the program. Students, who are screened at each school, will be eligible to win an Apple iPod touch and a number of other prizes.
To determine eligibility call the Children's Services Department at 519 383-8331 ext. 3536, toll-free 1-800-677-1839 or visit the Community Health Services Department, 160 Exmouth St., Point Edward.
For more information about Lambton County, visit www.lambtononline.ca.
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Contact:
Connie McKay
Registered Dental Hygienist
County of Lambton
Telephone: 519 383-8331 ext. 3540
email: connie.mckay@county-lambton.on.ca
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