The College of Dentistry is putting on a new program called the USask Dental Access and Training Expansion Program.

Madiha Rizki, communications coordinator with the College of Dentistry, says the program offers fully funded dental care to those without private insurance or who face barriers accessing the Canadian Dental Care Plan.

“This program is specifically designed to support people who often face challenges in accessing affordable dental care. I’m talking about low-income individuals and families, newcomers to Canada, individuals who may be experiencing housing insecurity, and really anyone facing financial barriers to oral health care.”

She adds that they have been reaching out to organizations that support these people as a way to get them in the program.

“We are actually reaching out to the community to build awareness of this program. We do invite frontline workers, community organizations, faith leaders, anyone who is actually working with that community to support them and tell them that these services are available. We do have referral programs available as well within this program, so we would like them to connect with us and talk about how we can offer this program to their clients.”

The program aims to make sure people can have their dental health looked after, regardless of economic or social barriers.