Are Your Teeth Feeling a Little Angry?
With COVID, a lot of people have neglected their teeth. Are your teeth giving you trouble? Are you worried about the cost? Ready for some good news?
If you are 65 or older (or under the age of 18), the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) has got you covered!
If you don’t have access to dental insurance, your net family income is less than $90,000, and you filed your tax return last year, you can apply to this program. Adults between 18 and 65 will be able to apply in 2025 as well.
Apply here: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/apply.html
If you can’t apply online, you may apply by phone: 1-833-537-4342.
You will receive a welcome package within 3 months of applying from Sun Life – they administer the Canadian Dental Care Plan for the government. Once you get this package, you are covered.
Not all dentists are signed up to this program – to see if your regular dentist is signed up, do a search for them here: https://www.sunlife.ca/sl/cdcp/en/member/provider-search/
When booking an appointment or discussing care options, always:
- Confirm that the dentist will accept you as a CDCP client
- Know your coverage start date and co-payment, if you have one
- Ask your provider if there are any costs you will have to pay in addition to your co-payment.
Never pay for the full amount for services in advance. Sun Life cannot reimburse you. Sun Life pays covered costs directly to your dentist.
Services Covered
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) will help pay a portion of the cost for a wide range of oral health care services.
- Diagnostic and preventive services: Dental exams, x-rays, cleaning, fluoride, sealants, etc.
- Basic services: Fillings, root canals, pain control, abscesses, etc.
- Major services: Crowns, dentures, removal of teeth & roots, tumours and cysts, etc.
- Anesthesia or sedation services
- Orthodontic services: Will be added in 2025 based on medical need
Note: Some services and additional treatments beyond established frequency limits will require preauthorization by the CDCP. This means your provider will recommend treatment, and the CDCP will assess if the treatment will be covered. This pre-approval must happen before you can receive the treatment. The decision will take into consideration your oral health history and medical conditions.
How Much Is Covered
You may have to pay a portion of the cost if your adjusted family net income is between $70,000 and $89,999, if the cost of the services is more than what the CDCP will reimburse for these services, or if you and your oral health provider agree to services that the CDCP doesn’t cover. Ask your dentist what is covered and what is not ahead of receiving treatment.
The CDCP pays your dentist directly. If you pay for services covered by the CDCP, you won’t get reimbursed.
For more information: consult this web page: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan.html
Why it is important to take care of your teeth
Serious health risks are associated with neglecting dental care. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining both oral and overall health. Neglecting dental hygiene and regular check-ups can lead to a cascade of health problems that extend beyond the mouth, impacting systemic health, financial well-being, and quality of life. By ensuring proper dental care, you can prevent these risks and maintain a healthier, happier life.
Jean-Daniel Cusin
Executive Director, Mayne Island Collective
“Working together for an age-friendly community”
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