The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) has reached a milestone, with more than one million Canadians receiving dental care through the program, according to an announcement by the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities.
Since its rollout, the plan has aimed to increase access to oral health services across Canada, including preventive cleanings and screenings for serious conditions like oral cancer.
“Thanks to our Canadian Dental Care Plan, thousands of people in Brampton West are now enrolled and able to see a dentist where and when they need it,” said Minister Khera. She noted that more than 2.7 million Canadians are currently approved for the plan, with new services and coverage expansions aimed at reaching even more people in need of affordable dental care.
As of November 1, the CDCP will cover additional treatments, including partial dentures and crowns, for eligible patients with complex needs. Health Canada has worked with oral health providers to make the new preauthorization requirements manageable, allowing for an easier process in cases where treatment recommendations need prior approval.
The CDCP, which also launched paper claim submissions on November 1, now allows providers who rely on paper records to submit claims for covered services. Health Minister Mark Holland highlighted the program’s early impact: “In just six months, more than 1 million Canadians have received care through the CDCP. That is 1 million stories of Canadians getting dental care for a healthier, better life.”
With 89% of active oral health providers in Canada participating, the plan’s implementation has been supported by a nationwide network of over 22,340 providers. Health Canada has collaborated with these practitioners through consultations and working groups to ease the administrative requirements associated with the expanded services and claims processes.
In future phases, the program is expected to expand its eligibility criteria to cover more Canadians. Currently, online applications are available to seniors over 65, adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate for 2023, and parents or guardians of children under 18, with broader eligibility set to roll out in 2025.