I’m 74, still working and can’t afford new teeth. Dental care is my election issue

Gale Uhlmann, a superintendent in Stirling, Ont., recently shared her personal story of struggling to afford dental care as a senior. At 74 years old, Uhlmann still works as a superintendent in an apartment building because her pension is not enough to cover her basic living expenses. Despite dedicating over 60 years to the workforce, Uhlmann finds herself in a difficult financial situation.

In December, Uhlmann received the devastating news that she needed to have all her teeth removed. She believed that the new Canadian Dental Care Plan would cover most of the cost. However, she was denied coverage because she has health insurance through her job. This left Uhlmann in a difficult position, as the cost of the dental procedures was substantial.

Uhlmann’s employer provides minimal dental insurance coverage, which only covers 60 per cent of a $750 maximum for all her benefits per year. The cost of extractions alone amounted to $5,400, with an additional $4,000 needed for dentures. Despite working hard her entire life, Uhlmann found herself unable to afford these necessary dental procedures.

Since Jan. 4, Uhlmann has been without teeth, surviving on soup and avoiding social gatherings out of embarrassment. She had to rely on a line of credit to pay for the dental procedures. Despite reaching out to the Prime Minister, the Health Minister, and other officials, Uhlmann remains ineligible for coverage under the dental care program.

Uhlmann emphasized the need for seniors’ dental care to be on the federal election agenda. She expressed her desire to vote for a federal party that supports and plans to expand the dental care program. While Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has stated that he will keep the federal dental care program, Uhlmann remains skeptical of his commitment to expanding coverage for seniors without insurance.

Uhlmann’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many seniors in accessing affordable healthcare. She hopes that Canadians will consider this issue when they go to vote in the upcoming federal election. Uhlmann’s struggle highlights the importance of prioritizing seniors’ dental care and ensuring that all Canadians have access to the healthcare they need.