A local dental hygienist is giving back to the community by offering her services free of charge to those who need them on June 28.
Meg Kreutziger, a dental hygienist and owner of To The Root Dental Hygiene, has been offering an annual free service day for about the past six years since she opened her clinic.
“My goal is always trying to do my best to help people get the care that they need,” said Kreutziger.
She is also using the opportunity to speak to people about options for oral healthcare that are available, such as the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).
“A majority of people still don’t know that program exists; it’s mind-boggling.”
The CDCP is available to people who do not have access to dental insurance and make less than $90,000, and it covers dental exams and cleanings. The program expanded to all ages earlier this month.
Kreutziger says that getting regular cleaning helps detect any problems before they become bigger problems.
“Your oral health care provider is going to be screening for anything from gingivitis to cavities to oral cancer, and other lesions,” she said, and can also help remind people of the need for routine in their oral health care.
“If you fall behind on those things where you’re not consistent or routine, then more stuff gets missed and it turns into a bigger problem, which turns potentially into a bigger cost, with needing dental restorations, and then that turns into a whole big thing.”
She said about 40 people had already signed up a week before the teeth cleaning event, and that they would be served on a first-come, first-serve basis.
In the past, Kreutziger has partnered with other local dental hygienists to help provide cleanings and is still seeking volunteers.
She said in a typical day, she can have about five to eight clients.
“We are a tiny little clinic, we just don’t have the resources like other places do, but we’ll do our best,” said Kreutziger.
A recent survey released by PolicyMe and Angus Reid found that 56 per cent of Canadians delay health appointments due to the cost, and 71 per cent are without insurance coverage.
The survey also found that Canadians over 55 and Gen Z are the most likely not to be insured, while 29 per cent of Canadians have paid over $1,000 in the past year for medical services.
She said the date, June 28, was chosen to coincide with the Gift from the Heart organization’s National Day of Giving. The organization encourages oral health practitioners to open their hearts and offer free services to someone in need on the day.