One-third of people in Canada have no dental insurance. In 2022, one out of every four Canadians reported that they have avoided visiting an oral health professional because of the expense, according to Health Canada.
Poor oral health can lead to serious diseases and health complications, as well as higher mortality rates from all causes. Poor oral health can also be related to mental health and nutritional issues and decreased quality of life. In severe instances, people can be subject to barriers to employment and isolation.
Budget 2023 announced the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which is investing $13 billion over 5 years, and $4.4 billion ongoing. CDCP will be administered by Health Canada in collaboration with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), through Service Canada and Sun Life.
CDCP is a public plan for eligible Canadians without dental insurance, whose adjusted family net income is under $90,000. It will help up to 9 million Canadians to access oral health care.
- Applications will open for seniors aged 87 and above in December, 2023.
- Those aged 77 to 86 can apply in January, 2024.
- Those aged 72 to 76 in February, 2024
- Those aged 70 to 71 in March, 2024.
- Those aged 65 and older can apply online in May, 2024.
- Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate and children under age 18 will be able to apply online in June, 2024.
- All remaining eligible Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 will be able to apply online in 2025.
Letters will be issued to seniors 70 and older with instructions on how to validate their eligibility and apply.
Learn more about the application process and what will be covered under the CDCP.
Find out when you can apply.
Image by joaopaulo_live2n from Pixabay