Health Canada has highlighted the significant adoption of its public dental insurance initiative, although statistics reveal that almost half of the 5.2 million eligible individuals have not utilized dental services yet. Out of the approved Canadians, 2.8 million have visited a dental clinic.
The latest data, released six months after the Canadian Dental Care Plan extension to encompass individuals aged 18-64, shows that 1.8 million from this group are now covered by the plan, with a quarter of them having availed of the benefits. Health Canada reports that nearly all active dentists, denturists, and independent dental hygienists are actively participating in treating patients through the program, marking a significant achievement following an initially slow uptake by dentists.
The national insurance scheme subsidizes dental expenses for residents with a family net income below $90,000 who lack private insurance coverage. It supports various dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, and dentures, with an average coverage of $800 per patient annually. Dental clinics have the option to “balance bill,” allowing them to charge amounts exceeding the government coverage, necessitating patients to cover the excess costs.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan was rolled out in May 2024, starting with seniors, followed by children and individuals receiving the disability tax credit. By May 2025, it expanded to encompass all eligible Canadians. The extensive public insurance program, valued at multibillions, was introduced as a result of the NDP’s support for the previous Trudeau Liberal minority government, leading to the implementation of major social programs like dental care.
