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🦷Dental Dispatch| June 2025
Smiles on the Move: Expanding Dental Access in Niagara
Niagara Region Public Health has welcomed a new Mobile Dental Clinic (MDC) — a 34-foot fully accessible unit designed to provide essential dental care directly to underserved communities. The MDC is equipped with a complete dental operatory, x-ray capabilities, and staffed by a registered dental hygienist and certified dental assistant. The clinic will deliver services including screening, cleanings, fluoride varnish and sealants (restorative procedures commencing early 2026).
The MDC supports both the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program for children and the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP). It aims to reduce health inequities by removing barriers to early intervention and preventive dental care. Appointments can be booked by contacting the Dental Health Line at 905-688-8248 or 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7399.
Program Reminders and Updates
📌CDCP Changes
New this month: Ontario residents aged 18-64 are now eligible to apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Coverage begins in June. Remember to renew your patient files where needed—2024 tax information is now required for continued enrollment.
📌OHIP Fee Codes
A few billing updates have taken effect: payment increases have been applied to select codes, and code T657A has been retired. Be sure to update your practice management systems accordingly.
📌HSO
Don't forget: Changes to the Emergency and Essential services Stream are still in place. Coverage now lasts six month, and clients can enroll up to three times in their lifetime. Encourage eligible families to transition in the Core Stream when appropriate.
In Case You Missed It
🗓️ ODA Annual Spring Meeting
In early May, dental professionals from across the province gathered for the Ontario Dental Association's Annual Spring Meeting. The event featured education, hands-on workshops, and fresh insight into what's ahead in oral health.
Looking Ahead
🪥 CDHA Leadership Symposium – Save the Date
The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association is hosting a one-day Leadership Development Symposium on Friday, October 17, 2025 at the Toronto Airport Marriott Hotel. Topics will include advocacy, communication and AI in dentistry.
Registration opens this month— we encourage our hygiene colleagues to take advantage of this professional development opportunity
From All of Us at Niagara Region Dental Health
Thank you for your continued dedication. We know the work isn't always easy, but it always matters. Here's to a safe, sunny summer season—and to every bright smile along the way
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