Thursday, January 1, 2015
Key Messages from the 2015 Oral Health Status Report
• There is a high rate of urgent and non-urgent oral health needs among WDG children
49% of WDG children have experienced tooth decay by Grade 2 4
49% of WDG children have experienced tooth decay by Grade 2 4
• Routine oral hygiene practices are at concerning levels in WDG
Approximately 20% of WDG residents do not brush their teeth twice a day 7
Approximately 20% of WDG residents do not brush their teeth twice a day 7
• Providing oral health services and education at a young age is crucial
• Cost is a significant barrier to receiving routine dental care and treatment
Among WDG residents who reported not having seen a dentist within the last three years, 28% reported cost as a barrier 7
Among WDG residents who reported not having seen a dentist within the last three years, 28% reported cost as a barrier 7
• Access to dental insurance is not equitable across income levels and age groups
Less than a third of WDG seniors have dental insurance 7
Less than a third of WDG seniors have dental insurance 7
• Cost remains a barrier even with employer-provided dental insurance
44% of low-income Guelph residents who have employer-provided benefits cannot afford routine dental care 8
44% of low-income Guelph residents who have employer-provided benefits cannot afford routine dental care 8
• Many WDG residents seek care for untreated oral needs from emergency services
In 2012, a total of 1,640 ER visits by WDG residents for oral health needs occurred 9
• Poor oral health causes many negative social impacts
Among low-income Guelph residents, over a quarter said their poor oral health impacts their social relationships and 16% said it affects their ability to get a job 8
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