Dental Health

A healthy mouth is a key component to your overall quality of life. It allows you to speak, eat, and smile comfortably, contributing to your physical, social and mental health.

Grand Erie Public Health provides dental programs and services for children, youth, and seniors in our communities.

Here’s how we help you maintain a healthy mouth:

• Dental clinics and programs: We offer free or low‑cost services for children and youth (0–17) and low‑income seniors (65+).
• School screenings: We visit schools to check kids’ oral health and share helpful tips.
• Education: We provide resources and tools to help you keep your mouth clean and healthy every day.
• Community events: We host public oral health campaigns and local programs to help you learn more about caring for your smile.
• Quick access to dental care for children in pain: If your child is experiencing dental pain or you can visibly see cavities, please contact the dental team to book a screening. If an obvious dental issue is identified and cost is a concern, you may qualify for financial assistance through the Healthy Smiles Ontario Emergency and Essential Services Stream. Once enrolled in the program, you can visit the dental office of your choice to receive the necessary care.

Why is oral health important?

Prevention and regular care help avoid cavities, pain, and other dental issues, ensuring everyone has access to a healthy smile.

A healthy mouth helps you eat, talk, and breathe comfortably. Taking care of your teeth and gums also prevents problems like:

• Gingivitis: Red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
• Cavities: Tooth decay that causes pain and damage.
• Gum disease: Serious infections that can harm your teeth and jawbone.
• Oral cancer: A serious condition that is easier to treat when caught early.

How can you keep your mouth healthy?

Follow these steps to protect your teeth and gums:

1. Visit a dental professional: Get regular checkups and cleanings to catch problems early.
2. Brush and floss daily
   1. Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day using a soft‑bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
   2. Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
3. Consume a variety of foods: Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein foods to get the nutrients you need for healthy teeth and gums. In addition to acidic foods, foods that contain sugar create an acidic environment in your mouth, which can promote tooth decay.
   1. Limit sugary foods and drinks: They can lead to cavities. If you choose foods or beverages that contain added sugar, have them with your meal. This helps increase saliva production, which helps wash away sugars and food particles.
   2. Make water the drink of choice: Drinking water with and between meals and snacks helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Water that contains optimal levels of fluoride helps make enamel stronger, reduces acid in the mouth, and rebuilds minerals.
4. Avoid tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco harm your teeth and gums.
5. Wear a mouthguard: Protect your teeth during sports and physical activities.
6. Check your mouth regularly: Look for red, swollen gums, sores, or unusual changes.

Many factors such as genetics, oral hygiene habits, and nutrition play a role in oral health.

What should you do next?

• Explore care for every age: Learn more about dental services for children and youth (0–17) and seniors (65+).
• Find local programs: Visit our community dental clinics or call us for more information.