It’s hard to believe we’ve been in this pandemic for one year. We feel optimistic about better things to come with the development of the vaccine and it’s roll out. Small businesses are facing so many hardships and are not sure if they will be able to reopen in the future. Many families, single parents, seniors and single people are facing the challenge of not being employed and having limited incomes. For Albertans, we understand the decision to buy groceries, pay for rent, and clothe our families takes priority over the decision to access dental care. Our office has put together some information about accessing limited public funding if you are looking for dental assistance.
If finances are a challenge
For families that need assistance, Alberta Child Health Benefits and Alberta Works programs may be able to offer support when incomes are limited. Call 1-877-469-5437 or visit: www.alberta.ca/alberta-child-health-benefit.aspx for more details. It’s worth investigating to see if there might be support available for you.
The Boyle McCauley Dental Clinic (https://www.bmhc.net/dental-clinic.html) might be a helpful resource for families in need. This clinic offers care to those facing barriers on a sliding fee schedule that considers patient income. Call 780-422-7333.
The University of Alberta Dental Clinic offers a range of dental services to the public, often at more affordable prices. Visit this website for more information: https://www.ualberta.ca/school-of-dentistry/oral-health-clinic/index.html. Call 780-407-5550.
The NAIT Dental Clinic provides teeth cleaning and fluoride application to children and teens between 7–18 yrs. of age. The clinic also fabricates complete upper and lower dentures and partial lower dentures. Call 780-471-7786.
If you’re a senior
Many of our seniors are under the assumption that they qualify for dentistry under Blue cross when they turn 65. The Blue Cross program is for medical and prescriptions only. In order for seniors to qualify for basic dental treatment, they must contact Alberta Supports Contact Centre. Toll-free: 1-800-232-7215 and Edmonton: 780-427-9999.
The Dental Assistance for Senior Program (DASP) provides basic dental coverage to a maximum of $5000.00 every five years from the date of your first paid dental procedure. The amount of coverage you receive is based on your previous year’s annual income.
If you’re struggling
Our dental practice will continue to welcome patients accessing income and social supports at our office including Alberta Works, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), Alberta Child health Benefits, and Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB).
When dental practices see patients accessing these programs, we offer a significant discount (up to 45%) off our regular fees. Patients on these programs are welcome at our office.