But dental care is expensive, and many Canadian residents don’t have dental insurance. According to data collected by Statistics Canada from March 2007 to February 2009, 32 percent of Canadians have no public or private dental insurance.  As a result, many forego the routine treatment they need, which can lead to chronic tooth pain and serious oral health issues.

A Canada dental insurance plan can help you get the care you need.  Dental plans pay for a portion of the cost associated with covered treatment, making it more affordable to receive professional treatment.  Combined with diligent oral care at home, you can keep your smile healthy and happy for a lifetime.  Here are four ways you can protect your teeth and gums:

• Brushing.  Brushing your teeth removes bacteria and plaque that cause tooth decay and gingivitis.  According to the Canadian Dental Association, at a minimum you should brush your teeth every night before you go to bed.  Ideally you should brush your teeth after every meal for optimal oral health because bacteria begin growing within minutes of eating.  When you brush, start with your gums and brush in a downward motion, ensuring you clean the entire tooth.  And don’t brush too hard.  Brushing too hard can cause your gums to recede.
• Flossing.  Flossing removes bacteria and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.  The Canadian Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day.  If you don’t floss, plaque that builds up on your teeth turns into tartar.  The only way to remove tartar is by having a professional cleaning.
• Diet.  You know that eating the right types of food is important for managing your waistline.  But it’s also important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.  Sugary foods contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, while foods rich in nutrients promote good oral health.  The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing after you eat if you’ve eaten sugary foods.  If that’s not possible, chew a piece of sugar-free gum or rinse your mouth with water to wash away some of the sugar.
• See a Dentist.  According to data collected by Statistics Canada from March 2007-February 2009, 26 percent of Canadians had not seen a dental professional in the last year.  But obtaining dental treatment on a regular basis is one of the most important things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy.  According to the Canadian Dental Association, 48 percent of Canadians who haven’t seen a dentist in the last year have gum disease.  Dentists are trained to identify small problems and treat them before they become complex ones.

Purchasing a Canada dental insurance plan can provide the coverage you need to get the routine care necessary to maintain good oral health.