The Canadian Dental Care Plan: Seniors Come First

Oral health care is essential for overall health and well-being. But many Canadian residents cannot afford to visit an oral health care professional. A new federal insurance plan will help change that. Beginning in 2024, qualifying Canadian residents without private dental insurance can apply to the Canadian Dental Care Plan for help with the costs of visiting an oral health care professional.

Coverage under the plan is rolling out in phases. The first group to qualify is seniors. If you are aged 70 and over and have an adjusted family income of less than $90,000 per year, you will receive a letter by March 2024 telling you how to apply for coverage under the plan.

Starting May 2024, seniors over the age of 65 can apply for coverage. Children under the age of 18 and persons with a disability tax credit certificate can apply as of June. Other Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 will be able to apply for dental coverage in 2025.

The dental care plan will cover a wide range of oral health care services, including preventive services provided by participating dental hygienists across the country. These include scaling (cleaning), polishing, sealants, and fluoride. Other services covered under the plan include x-rays, fillings, root canal treatments, dentures, periodontal treatment, and extractions.

Seniors are especially at risk for the complications caused by poor oral health. Gum disease increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. A sore mouth or loss of teeth can make it difficult to eat, leading to malnutrition. Dry mouth is another concern that often affects seniors and can cause cavities.

With the new Canadian Dental Care Plan and professional oral health care services provided by dental hygienists in mobile practices and store-front dental clinics, seniors and all eligible residents in Canada will be able to achieve better overall health for life. Find more information about the Canadian Dental Care Plan and oral health for seniors at dentalhygienecanada.ca.