When it comes to dental issues, no pain doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem.

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Not all dental problems cause pain so don’t wait for your child to tell you they are in pain before seeing a dentist. They could have a serious problem without showing any signs.

Oral Health Month in April is a reminder of the importance of children having a dental check-up, at least once a year, to prevent problems from starting. There are many chronic dental concerns, such as cavities and gingivitis, which may not be painful until it is too late. Dental concerns need to be checked immediately, no matter if it is "baby teeth" or "adult teeth".

Children and youth 17 years and under may be eligible for free dental care. Contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit for information on our preventative clinics and programs that may provide free dental care.

Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) has services to make it easier for children and youth to get free dental care. Children 17 and under from families receiving Ontario Works, Temporary Care Assistance, Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities or the Ontario Disability Support Program are automatically eligible and enrolled in HSO. Children not enrolled through these services may still be eligible for preventative or emergency dental care.

Visit the Ontario Association of Public Health Dentistry OAPHD or contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 519-376-9420 and press 8 for Dental or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca for more information and answers to your dental questions, including if your child is eligible for free dental care.

source: media release, GBHU