The Canada Dental Benefit (CDCP), which was introduced last year to help alleviate dental care costs for Canadian families earning less than $90,000 annually, is now accepting applications from a broader range of individuals. This expansion aims to provide financial relief for dental services to more Canadians, particularly targeting seniors and families with children.
Key Updates and Eligibility Criteria:
- Seniors 65 and older: Starting today, seniors who have previously applied and received a May coverage start date can begin accessing dental services. Additionally, new applications from seniors aged 65 and above are now being accepted through a new online application tool designed for ease of use.
- Initial Rollout: The benefit initially rolled out in December 2023, focusing on seniors over 87. The eligibility will continue to expand in the upcoming months to include more demographic groups.
- Eligibility Requirements: To qualify, applicants must be Canadian residents without dental insurance—this includes not having access through employment, personal purchase, or family benefits. The family income must be below $90,000 annually, with those earning under $70,000 eligible for zero co-pays.
- Additional Eligibility: Even if you receive dental coverage through a provincial or federal social program, you might still be eligible for the CDCP if you meet all other criteria.
Application Phases:
- Current Phase: Applications are open for seniors aged 65 and up, and families with children under 12 who need dental coverage.
- Upcoming Phases:
- June 2024: Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate and children under 18.
- Starting 2025: All remaining eligible Canadian residents.
Covered Services:
The CDCP covers a variety of oral healthcare services, which will be available in full by fall 2024. These services include:
- Preventive services like scaling, polishing, sealants, and fluoride treatment.
- Diagnostic services such as examinations and X-rays.
- Restorative services including fillings.
- Endodontic services like root canal treatments.
- Prosthodontic services, including complete and partial removable dentures.
- Periodontal services, including deep scaling.
- Oral surgery services, such as extractions.
Important Deadlines:
- The application deadline for families is June 30, 2024. It’s crucial to apply before this date to benefit from the program.
This expansion is part of the Canadian government’s commitment to ensuring up to nine million uninsured Canadians can access necessary dental care. Further updates and details about the services covered and additional eligibility phases will be provided by the federal government as the rollout continues.