The Government of the Northwest Territories is working to improve dental care in communities across the territory by investing in dental equipment.
In many communities, dental care is delivered by visiting dentists who rely on equipment in local health centers.
In recent years, outdated, damaged, or unsafe equipment has caused cancelled visits and interruptions to service, even when dentists were able to visit.
“Many residents, particularly those in small and remote communities, have faced real barriers to accessing dental care due to service disruptions and outdated equipment,” said Minister Lesa Semmler.
A new three-year deal with Health Canada under the federal Oral Health Access Fund will provide $3 million for the territory to repair and replace aging equipment in health centers.
The first year under this agreement will focus on assessing repair needs and planning how they will be executed, with repair and replacement work beginning in the Beaufort Delta and Sahtu in the following two years.
“This project will help ensure residents can access dental care closer to home, support community well-being and strengthen access to essential health services throughout the territory,” said Minister Rebecca Alty.
The GNWT has also finalized an agreement with Adam Dental Clinic to provide visiting dentists for Fort Simpson, Fort Resolution, Fort Providence and Norman Wells, beginning this summer.
