Health Reports

A Canadian peer-reviewed journal of population health and health services research

April 2024

Assessing the role of dental insurance in oral health care disparities in Canadian adults

by Mohammad Moharrami, Yujiro Sano, Kellie Murphy, Xuefeng Hu, Janine Clarke, Scott McLeish and Yannick Fortin

Oral health is a crucial component of overall health, influencing both physical and mental well-being. Yet, despite the important role that access to and utilization of oral health care services play in maintaining optimal oral health, substantial disparities remain in access to oral health care services across population groups in Canada. Further, addressing oral health disparities across the country also requires a consideration of the behavioural and social determinants that influence these differences in access to and utilization of care. 

Full article PDF version
Related articles

Assessing the role of dental insurance in oral health care disparities in Canadian adults

Factors associated with the use of oral health care services among Canadian children and youth

by Kellie Murphy, Juliana V. Gondro and Mohammad Moharrami

Oral health is an important component of overall health. Children’s oral health can affect functional capacities, psychological well-being, and social integration. Additionally, health behaviours established in childhood extend into adulthood and can influence oral health outcomes later in life. Although there are some public programs targeted at certain age groups and at-risk populations, historically, most Canadians have relied on employer-provided or private dental insurance coverage. For children, most provincial and territorial jurisdictions offer some form of dental coverage, though it is often based on financial need or health status. Consequently, there are disparities in access to and use of oral health care among Canadians.

Full article PDF version
Related articles

Factors associated with the use of oral health care services among Canadian children and youth

Date modified: