In the latest round of pre-election spending, the Nova Scotia government is promising to expand basic dental coverage for children up to 17 years old over the next year four years.

By 2017 the program will cost $2 million a year in extra billing.

The move will be incremental. Starting in April, 10,000 more youth aged 14 or younger will qualify for MSI coverage for basic treatment. Each year the age limit will rise, capping at 17.

Basic treatment includes yearly checkups, cleanings and fillings.

If enacted the dental care program would be one of most generous programs in Canada.