The Notley government has announced that it will be taking action against the rising cost of dental procedures in Alberta, saying that the fees are higher and growing faster than anywhere else in Canada.

The data came out of a dental fee review and included an analysis of the fees for some of the most common dental procedures performed in the province.

The results will be posted in a public dental fee guide so Albertans can compare prices and shop around for services that suit their needs and budget.

Alberta’s Health Minister Sarah Hoffman said in a release that the information is just the first step of the government’s process to keep prices manageable.

“We are partnering with the Alberta Dental Association and College to further protect consumers by introducing a public fee guide similar to those found in every other province. Work is also underway to close gaps in government programs for vulnerable Albertans and to help families understand their rights as dental consumers.”

Ambrose Blum, a patient at the School of Dentistry for the past four years, says the government’s plan will also improve access to services for all Albertans at a reasonable cost.

Dr. Allan Graas, president of the Alberta Dental Association and College, says he will work with government’s program to ensure it best serves both Albertans and dentists.