The Canadian Dental Care plan is now open to all Canadians aged 72 and older.

Health Minister Marc Holland made the announcement yesterday indicating that more than 400,000 seniors have already signed up for the multi-billion dollar program.

Holland is encouraging those now eligible to apply to wait for their letters to come in the mail.

He says access to oral health care is not just about having a “happy smile,” but it is essential to maintaining good overall health.

“It’s absolutely essential in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, dementia and other maladies including cancer,” says Holland.

However, questions remain. Some are fearful that there are not enough dentists and staff to meet the need, while dentists themselves indicate they still don’t have any information on how the program will work and how they get paid. Holland says those issues have been the focus of intense conversations, and more information is coming soon.