Province doubles funding for low-cost dental clinics

More people in Prince George will now have access to free dental coverage thanks to more funding from the province.

The Poverty Reduction Strategy will be doubling the funding for 25 clinics across the province, including one in Prince George.

“Too often, people living in poverty cannot afford to take proper care of their teeth because they have to put the basics like food and shelter first,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

Last year B.C.s not-for-profit dental clinics had approximately 54,000 patient visits.

Part of the funding will also go towards upgrading and buying new equipment such as X-ray machines, detail chairs, and computer software.

“Access to quality, affordable dental health, and hygiene care should be available to more people, and that’s why we’re making it a part of this government’s efforts to reduce poverty throughout B.C..”