The Ontario Dental Association (the “ODA”) recognizes that Indigenous Peoples in Canada face unique oral health challenges and have poorer oral health outcomes than non-Indigenous persons. Despite the provision of a federally funded dental care plan, the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program, First Nations and Inuit in Canada are more likely to develop dental caries, lose their teeth prematurely, and suffer from orthodontic problems than their non-Indigenous
counterparts.
A lack of access to plumbing and clean, fluoridated water, healthy food, education, and accessible oral health care, all have been associated with poorer oral health outcomes, especially for Indigenous people and those living in First Nations communities. The ODA also acknowledges that the health inequities that exist between Indigenous Peoples and the general Ontario population are impacted by factors such as colonialism, racism, intergenerational trauma, and social exclusion. As a result, and in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the ODA’s Mission statement promoting optimal oral health and accessible and sustainable care for all Ontarians, the ODA is committed to:
- engagement of Indigenous communities in the development of oral health care education;
- advocating for clean water and food security in First Nations communities, including the
fluoridation of community water supplies; and - empowering Indigenous communities’ right to be actively involved in determining oral
health programs affecting them, and autonomy over administering such programs.
Ontario dentists:
- acknowledge the Indigenous healing practices and holistic views of Indigenous health and well-being;
- equip themselves with the tools, knowledge, training and experience to improve Indigenous
oral health care, reduce oral health disparities and support more equitable access to oral
health care for Indigenous communities; and - commit to the well-being of Indigenous patients, their families and communities through
ethical, respectful, and culturally competent patient-practitioner relationships.