Oral Health Month — Our Mouth Reflects Our Overall Health — Montreal, April 4, 2022

As oral health appears to be a growing concern among Quebecers, the Ordre des dentistes du Québec is taking advantage of April, Oral Health Month, to remind everyone of the essential role the mouth plays in overall health.

The connection between oral diseases and a variety of health problems is well established. Since the scientific literature clearly recognizes this link, it is essential that our governments correct the historical anomaly whereby the mouth is treated differently from the rest of the human body in terms of public coverage.

Regular dental examinations can help detect certain health problems at an early stage. The dentist can then advise the patient, act promptly and, when necessary, refer them to the appropriate health professionals. However, all Quebecers—especially the most vulnerable—must have access to such examinations. To this end, the Ordre des dentistes du Québec will soon launch a tool to inform the public about currently available government programs for targeted access to care and community initiatives supported by dentists. In the months ahead, the Order will also use every opportunity to encourage discussion about public coverage for oral health care.

QUOTE: “The mouth is, in a way, a mirror of a person’s overall health. It is therefore important for all Quebecers to pay close attention to the health of their mouth and teeth, just as they care for their general health. Access to oral health care is more important than ever for part of the population. This is why the Ordre des dentistes du Québec hopes that favourable conditions will be put in place so that as many Quebecers as possible can obtain the oral health care they should rightfully expect in a society where health is a priority.”

Dr. Guy Lafrance, DMD, President of the Ordre des dentistes du Québec.