Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to remind members that April is Dental Health Month, a time to celebrate the smile.
The Canadian Dental Association and its provincial counterparts use Dental Health Month for promotions to raise our awareness of dental health issues. Some dental associations host public lectures on important subjects like oral cancer and mouth care for the elderly. Many groups mount mall displays and sponsor contests; others co-ordinate free dental clinics for the needy.
These are just a few examples of the efforts undertaken during Dental Health Month. They all have a common purpose: to reinforce the elements of prevention, from brushing and flossing, to visiting the dentist for regular checkups and eating a healthy diet. Dentistry's commitment to prevention is to be commended. It is a commitment that is celebrated during Dental Health Month, but practised all year round.