Scammers are targeting older adults with a new round of social media ads that falsely claim the government is offering dental implant subsidies for people aged 50 and above. The Department of Health (DH) has issued a warning, stressing that no such program exists and urging the public to avoid these offers.
According to a September 18, 2026 report by Wen Wei Po, the DH confirmed it has never launched a "dental implant subsidy for people 50+" and has reported the scam to the police. The department has also filed a complaint with the relevant social media platform.
The Community Dental Support Programme, launched in May 2025, replaced the previous elderly dental assistance scheme and expanded coverage to include homeless individuals from January 2026.
The DH has asked the police and social media companies to act against the fraudulent ads. Anyone who has clicked suspicious links or shared personal information in response is advised to contact the police immediately. The DH also reminds the public to check clinic addresses, dentist registration, and complaint procedures-especially when considering dental treatment abroad, as noted in Sing Tao Canada reporting.
Dental implants involve surgically placing materials such as titanium into the jawbone to support crowns, bridges, or dentures. This is a complex procedure and not everyone is a suitable candidate. The DH notes that both general and oral health must be considered, and anyone seeking treatment outside Hong Kong should carefully verify the clinic's address, the dentist's credentials, and how the clinic handles complaints or medical incidents.
There is no government dental implant subsidy for the general public. However, the government has expanded support for people in need. The Community Dental Support Programme (CDSP), launched in May 2025, offers subsidised dental services such as oral health assessments, pain relief, X-rays, fillings, and extractions for those facing financial hardship. Since January, the CDSP has replaced the Community Care Fund Elderly Dental Assistance Programme and now also serves the homeless. New services include dental scaling, root canal treatment, removal of bridges and crowns, and fitting of removable dentures.
In the 2026 Policy Address, the Hong Kong government announced not a universal implant subsidy, but an expansion of preventive dental care for high-risk groups starting in 2027, including outreach services for residents of certain facilities for people with disabilities.
- The Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address
The government's dental strategy focuses on prevention, early detection, and timely treatment, aiming to help people keep their natural teeth. For more information about the CDSP and legitimate dental support, the DH directs the public to its official website at communitydental.gov.hk.
This incident highlights how older adults can be vulnerable to online scams that exploit the need for affordable dental care. The Department of Health's quick response is important, but the spread of these schemes shows the need for ongoing public awareness. Until social media platforms and authorities can consistently block such fraud, individuals must stay alert and check offers carefully before sharing personal information. The dental profession also has a role in promoting clear, accessible care and protecting public trust.
