The roll-out of the Canadian Dental Care Plan begins next week. The federal government estimates when the phase-in is complete, the plan will help ease financial barriers to oral health care for up to nine million uninsured Canadians with an annual family income of less than $90,000. Minister of Labour and Seniors, Seamus O’Regan Jr. says dental care shouldn’t be a luxury. It’s basic health care.

A news release from the federal government says the rollout begins next week when applications will first open for seniors 87 and over. Anyone who may be eligible will receive letters inviting them to apply, with instructions on how to validate their eligibility and apply by phone. Services that could be covered include cleaning, polishing, fluoride, x-rays, fillings, root canals, dentures and extractions.