“There's an oral health crisis across Indigenous communities In Canada” - CREST

Art created by: Alanah Astehtsi Otsistohkwa (Morningstar) Jewell (she/her)

I was exploring what it meant to me to be First Nation. I wanted to know why my life as a child was so different from the lives of other Canadians.

On March 24, 2023, RCDSO Council met to discuss issues related to equity, diversity and inclusion. Dr. Sheri McKinstry, founder of the Indigenous Dental Association of Canada (IDAC), shared her perspectives on this important topic. Dr. McKinstry also spoke about IDAC's mission, and how regulatory boards, dentists and the public can become involved.

“We need to do better when it comes to providing care in the communities. I think everybody has a role to play.”

As the federal government moves toward expanding public-paid access to dental care, now is the time to ensure the strategy is shaped carefully.

Advocates say that dental care in some remote Indigenous communities remains poor due to geographical limitations and factors including food and housing affordability.