Angela Scott Chairwoman Age Concern Tauranga

People have called the Age Concern office wondering if there is anywhere they can get cheaper dental treatment. I am well aware that many older people don't go to the dentist for check-ups because of the cost.

When treatment is needed, it can cost thousands, and for those on a fixed income, it can be a nightmare.

Ask your dentist if he offers Super Gold Card discounts, we would be very interested to know if any do. There are government subsidies towards emergency dental treatment and dentures for people on low incomes. If you have a Community Service Card or have special needs, you may be eligible for hospital outpatient treatment. ACC pay accident related dental costs, but for the rest of us, there is no help.

More of us are able to keep our teeth as we get older compared to previous generations. I am sure you know that healthy teeth or properly fitted dentures make a big difference to eating well and also how we look. We all want to age well and enjoy life.

Dentists tell us that the most important thing we can do is to look after our teeth and gums. Even small changes in habits, like starting to floss, can make a big difference at any age.

Age Concern is taking every opportunity to call for government to provide life-long subsidies for dental care so we can all afford the dental treatment we need.

Contact Age Concern at 177a Fraser Street, Tauranga or phone 07 578 2631.