Minister of Health Marjorie Michel announced Monday that close to six million Canadians are now covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), including more than 370,000 residents in Atlantic Canada.
Michel also revealed a $35 million investment in the Oral Health Access Fund (OHAF), with $4.7 million earmarked for five projects in the Atlantic region. Over $2 million will go to Dalhousie University to enhance training for dental hygiene and dentistry students, providing hands-on experience and improving access to care.
“In communities across Atlantic Canada, we understand the value of receiving care close to home,” said Shannon Miedema, Halifax MP. “As more Canadians benefit from the CDCP, we are building the capacity and expertise needed to meet local oral health needs.”
The federal program saves eligible Canadians an average of $800 annually on services such as cleanings, fillings, and dentures. Michel highlighted the program’s success: “Canadians are now receiving preventive care, thanks to the participation of nearly all oral health providers nationwide. Supporting new training projects will empower the next generation of professionals and reduce costs for families.”
Currently, more than 27,000 oral health providers participate in the CDCP. Eligible Canadians can apply online if they lack dental insurance, have filed their 2024 tax returns, earn under $90,000 in adjusted family net income, and are Canadian residents for tax purposes.
The OHAF, led by Health Canada, is a grants and contributions program designed to complement the CDCP and expand access to dental care nationwide.
