Terry Beech, the federal Minister of Citizens’ Services, announced on Friday that more than 1 million Canadians have received dental care under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Additionally, over 2.7 million Canadians have been approved to participate in the program.
The CDCP is providing significant savings for Canadians, averaging over $730 per person on various oral health services, including routine cleanings and critical screenings for conditions like oral cancer.
Starting November 1, the CDCP will expand its offerings to include more services, allowing even more Canadians to access necessary care. The plan will begin accepting requests for services that require preauthorization. This means patients can now receive treatments such as initial placements of partial dentures and crowns, especially for those with complex needs.
Each request will be evaluated individually to ensure it meets the clinical criteria for coverage under the CDCP.
Furthermore, the CDCP will now accept paper claim submissions for covered services. While most providers have been able to submit claims electronically since May 2024, those who only handle paper claims can now submit their requests as well.
This change aims to enhance access to dental care for a broader range of Canadians.
Currently, over 22,340 oral health providers across Canada—representing 89% of active providers—are delivering care under the CDCP. Their involvement has been vital in improving access to dental services nationwide.
Health Canada has worked closely with oral health providers to streamline the preauthorization process, ensuring it is as efficient as possible for both providers and their staff. The department remains dedicated to facilitating smooth implementation of these processes across the country.
Federal Health Minister Mark Holland remarked, “In just six months, more than 1 million Canadians have received care through the CDCP. That represents a million stories of Canadians improving their health through dental care. With 89% of oral health providers participating and expanded services now available, even more Canadians can access affordable dental care.”
Minister Beech added, “This milestone shows how essential the CDCP is. Many families can now afford dental treatments that were previously out of reach. If you qualify and haven’t enrolled yet, visit Canada.ca/Dental to check your eligibility.
Together, we are enhancing the oral health of millions of Canadians.”
Quick Facts
Once fully implemented, the CDCP aims to make oral health care affordable for up to nine million Canadians who currently lack dental insurance.
Eligible applicants will receive a welcome package detailing their coverage start date.
Oral health providers can refer to the updated CDCP Dental Benefits Guide for necessary documentation related to preauthorization requests.
Patients may incur additional charges beyond their co-payment based on the services received.
Preauthorization requests must be submitted by providers directly to Sun Life with supporting documents.
Online applications are currently open for seniors aged 65 and older, adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate for 2023, and parents or guardians with children under 18. Applications for all other eligible Canadians will commence in 2025.
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