Exploring Access & Habits in Canadian Dental Care

Your input will help design a free, easy-to-use app that supports better dental care for Canadians – especially those facing challenges with access, education and coverage. Thank you for sharing your reponse.

How important is oral health to you compared to other areas of your health?

A

Not important

B

Somewhat important

C

Important

D

Very important

Do you currently have dental insurance or financial coverage for dental care?

A

Yes

B

No

C

I'm not sure

Have you heard of the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

A

Yes

B

No

C

I've heard of it but I don't know much

If yes: Have you applied or do you plan to apply?

A

Already applied

B

Planning to apply

C

Not eligible

Do cost or coverage issues prevent you from getting regular dental care?

A

Never

B

Sometimes

C

Oftentimes

What challenges, if any, have you faced when trying to access dental care in Canada? (Select all that apply)

I can't afford dental care or don't have coverage

I find it difficult to access or afford regular preventive dental care (e.g., cleanings, check-ups) despite wanting to.

I live in a rural or remote area where there are few or no dentists available

I have difficulty finding clinics that accept public dental coverage like the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

I'm a newcomer and not sure where to go

Dental anxiety or fear has kept me from seeking care regularly

I haven't faced any major challenges

I'm not a Canadian resident / I am currently outside of Canada

In your opinion, how much does oral health impact areas like self-esteem, stress, or daily routines?

A

Not at all

B

Somewhat

C

A considerable amount

D

Not sure

What would help you build better oral health habits? (Pick your top 2)

Reminders or habit tracking tools (apps, notifications, etc.)

Learning the science of how oral health affects gut, brain, or heart health

Knowing the impact of oral care on mental health, stress, or confidence

Rewards, streaks, or gamified milestones

Support navigating the healthcare system or finding low-cost care

Feeling more positive and motivated about taking care of myself

I already have a routine that works well for me

Not sure

When it comes to learning about oral health, which format do you prefer? (Select all that apply)

Short videos or animations

Articles or blog posts

Interactive quizzes or challenges (quizzes, symptom checkers)

In-app notifications or tips

I don't want to learn about my oral health

Other

If you selected other, please describe the format you prefer:

Would you be curious to explore how oral health connects to... (Pick all that apply)

Heart health (e.g. stroke, blood pressure, cardiovascular disease)

Diabetes or blood sugar regulation

Breathing and respiratory health (e.g. lung infections, asthma)

Mental health (e.g. mood, confidence, stress)

Memory or cognitive health (e.g. Alzheimer’s, dementia)

Skin or acne issues

Gut health or the microbiome

Fitness, recovery, or athletic performance

Hormonal balance (e.g. menstruation, PCOS, menopause)

I'm not sure / not interested

Which best describes your residency status?

A

I am a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a refugee or asylum seeker in Canada

B

I live in Canada with a temporary status (work/study permit)

C

I am not Canadian and do not live in Canada