Canada’s Health Minister Kamal Khera has announced that the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) will begin accepting applications from its largest group of eligible individuals—those aged 18 to 64—starting in May.
The program, initially launched for seniors in December 2023, has been gradually expanded to include children and individuals with disabilities. While the final phase was originally expected to begin earlier this year, Khera confirmed the official timeline during an announcement in Newmarket, Ontario.
Phased Rollout Begins in May
The expansion will roll out in stages:
- May 1: Applications open for Canadians aged 55 to 64.
- May 15: Applications open for those aged 18 to 34.
- May 29: Applications open for those aged 35 to 54.
Approved applicants could receive coverage as early as June 1. The plan is available to households earning under $90,000 per year without private dental insurance.
“In total, we’re expecting an additional 4.5 million Canadians to be eligible for dental coverage,” Khera stated. “Dental care is health care.”
Since the program’s launch, about 1.7 million Canadians have accessed dental services. Khera emphasized the program’s positive impact, stating that it is “helping people regain their self-confidence, sense of dignity, and improving their overall health.”
As a former nurse, Khera stressed the importance of preventive care, highlighting that routine dental visits can significantly reduce broader healthcare costs and burdens.
To date, approximately 98% of dentists, denturists, dental hygienists, and dental specialists across Canada are participating in the program, ensuring broad accessibility.
The announcement comes just before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to call a federal election. The future of the program remains uncertain, as the opposition Conservative Party has not committed to continuing its funding. The CDCP was introduced as part of a supply-and-confidence agreement between the Liberal government and the NDP.
The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) welcomed the program’s expansion, highlighting its potential to reduce emergency room visits and alleviate pressure on the healthcare system. Data from 2001 to 2015 showed that Ontario alone recorded over 70,000 physician visits for dental-related issues.
“The broader issues of access to oral health care and the financial burden of oral diseases must be addressed,” said CDHA President Alexandra Sheppard. “As primary care providers, dental hygienists treat oral diseases and offer preventive therapies. We see first-hand the direct, positive impact of investments in oral health care by the federal government. That’s why we applaud Minister Khera’s announcement today.”
With millions of Canadians set to benefit, the CDCP represents a significant step toward improving access to oral health care nationwide. However, the program’s future could depend on political developments in the coming months. As the expansion rolls out, many Canadians will be watching closely to see how the plan continues to evolve.
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