The rate of seniors in Grey-Bruce, located almost three hours’ driving distance west of Toronto, who visited the emergency department for dental concerns in 2022 was more than double the provincial average, according to a press release from Grey Bruce Public Health on Monday.
While older adults made up 23.6% of Bruce County’s population and 24.1% of Grey County’s—both significantly higher than the provincial percentage of 16.7%—among adults aged 85 and older, the percentages in Grey-Bruce were similar to Ontario’s.
“Oral health problems, which are more prevalent in older adults, can negatively impact a person’s quality of life by causing pain, anxiety, discomfort, and affecting eating, sleep, and self-esteem,” said Jason Weppler, Manager of the Oral Health Program at Grey Bruce Public Health.
“Evidence also shows connections between oral diseases, such as tooth decay and gum disease, and other health conditions like Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.”
So far, Grey Bruce Public Health stated it is collaborating with Bruce County to raise awareness about the crucial link between oral health and overall well-being, as well as the availability of government-funded programs to help eligible seniors cover dental care costs.
The press release also noted that seniors may qualify for assistance through both the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP).
