Dental Care for Seniors in Aurora

A dentist for seniors who takes time

Many older patients tell us they want two things from a dental visit: clear answers and no rush. We start with your health history and the medicines you take, because both can affect your mouth. Then your dentist examines your teeth, gums, tongue and any dentures, and shows you what they see on our intraoral camera.

If you have accessibility needs or would like a family member in the room, tell us when you book and we'll plan your visit. Our team speaks English, Farsi, Tamil and Tagalog, so ask for a team member who speaks your language.

The CDCP and older adults

Seniors were among the first groups able to join the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Today, eligibility depends on the same rules for every adult. Canada.ca lists four: no access to private dental insurance, a tax return filed for last year by you and any spouse or partner, an adjusted family net income under the government's limit, and residence in Canada for tax purposes. You also confirm your eligibility each year.

Pension plans matter here. Dental coverage through your own pension, or a spouse's, counts as access to private insurance even if you never use it. There is one exception: a retiree who opted out of pension dental coverage before December 11, 2023, and cannot opt back in may still qualify.

What the CDCP covers for seniors

The plan covers exams, X-rays, cleanings and fillings. It also covers gum treatment, root canals, extractions and complete dentures, including relines and repairs. Partial dentures, crowns and some other services need preauthorization, which means the plan must approve them before treatment. Implants are not on the plan's list of covered services.

As a CDCP seniors dentist, we check your coverage, send any preauthorization request and bill Sun Life directly. Your co-payment depends on your family income. If our fee is higher than the CDCP fee, or you choose a service the plan does not cover, we show you that amount in writing first.

Ontario's program for low-income seniors

Ontario also runs the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program for residents 65 and older with low income and no other dental benefits. Care under that program is given at public health units and partner community health centres. Ontario.ca says having CDCP coverage does not stop you from qualifying. If you think you may be eligible, York Region Public Health can tell you where services are offered.

Dry mouth and medicines

Dry mouth is common in older adults. Many medicines, such as some for blood pressure, anxiety or depression, reduce saliva. With less saliva, teeth are more likely to decay and dentures can rub. The Ontario Dental Association suggests these steps:

• Sip water through the day
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free lozenges to help saliva flow
• Choose a mouthwash without alcohol, or a product made for dry mouth
• Cut back on coffee, alcohol and smoking
• Ask your doctor whether a medicine could be adjusted, and ask your dentist about extra fluoride

Gums, roots and everyday care

Gums can pull back with age, leaving the roots of teeth exposed. Roots are softer than enamel, so they can decay more easily and may feel sensitive to hot or cold. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth once a day still matter at any age. If arthritis makes brushing hard, ask us about an electric toothbrush or floss holders.

Watch for gums that bleed or look red and swollen. That can be a sign of gum disease. Our hygienists clean above and below the gumline, and your dentist may suggest gum treatment if needed.

Living well with dentures

Dentures need care just like natural teeth. Clean them every day, handle them over a folded towel or a sink of water, and keep them in water or a soaking solution when they are out of your mouth. Over time, the gums and bone under a denture change shape, so a denture that once fit well can start to slip or rub.

The Ontario Dental Association advises seeing a dentist at least once a year even if you wear full dentures. Your dentist checks the fit and looks at the soft tissues of your mouth. Book sooner if you notice a sore or patch that lasts 14 days or more.

How it works at our clinic

1. Book your visitCall us or use our website form. Mention any mobility, hearing or language needs.
2. Bring your detailsBring your CDCP member ID or insurance details, a list of all medicines and your dentures if you wear them.
3. Exam and conversationYour dentist checks your mouth, explains what they see and talks through your options.
4. Written estimateWe show what your plan pays and your share. We request CDCP preauthorization when needed.

Questions