Calling poor dental health a "silent epidemic," the leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party said Tuesday that the provincial government should provide care for children and low-income earners.

Howard Hampton said an initial four-year program would need $100 million to provide checkups, fillings, tooth extractions and emergency care through community dental teams.

Ontario NDP Leader Howard Hampton says Ontario children and low-income earners need better access to dental services.
(Canadian Press)

The current system is broken and unfair, said Hampton.

"If you have an infection in your foot you can see a doctor and have it covered, but if you have an infection in your tooth or gums you are barred from getting the care you need unless you can afford to pay out of pocket or are fortunate enough to have private dental insurance," said Hampton.

Under the party's proposed Ontario Smiles plan, funding would be increased in future years and more services would be offered to low-income residents who don't have dental insurance.

Hampton says it's a smart long-term investment because poor dental health can lead to heart disease, diabetes and other serious problems. The program would save money by preventing minor problems from becoming serious, he said.

Hampton says Ontario has the lowest spending on dental care in Canada, covering only two per cent of overall costs.