News Release

EDMUNDSTON (GNB) – Social Development Minister Madeleine Dubé and local dentist Dr. René Morin visited with students and staff at Carrefour de la Jeunesse in Edmundston to promote good oral hygiene habits during Oral Health Month.

"Having healthy teeth is an extremely important part of a child's overall health and development," said Dubé. "For children of low-income families, however, being able to visit a dentist for a regular checkup can be challenge. Through the provincial government's dental and vision plan, more children are being provided with the necessary coverage they need and deserve."

The Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program began in September 2012 and is available to all eligible children of low-income families 18 and younger. The plan covers basic items such as regular exams, X-rays and extractions, with some focus on preventative treatments, to a maximum of $1,000 each year.

"It is important to maintain oral health at all stages of life but especially at a young age," said Morin. "Developing good habits earlier on and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums."

To date, 15,588 New Brunswick children have access to the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program. This includes the 1,121 children of low-income families who enrolled in the program once it was implemented.

Application forms are available at Service New Brunswick centres and regional offices of the Department of Social Development. More information about the program and how to apply is online.