More than two million Canadians have received dental care through the Canadian Dental Care Plan, and that number is expected to grow as the federal program opens Thursday to people aged 35 to 54.
Described by the federal government as one of the country’s largest social programs, the CDCP is expected to make dental care more affordable for up to nine million Canadians with an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000.
“Today is a historic day for Canadians who have been waiting for dental care coverage. We are so proud that as of May 29, everyone who meets the criteria will be able to sign up to receive the dental care they need,” said Canada’s NDP Leader Don Davies, whose party initially proposed dental coverage to the Liberals.
As of May 23, more than four million Canadians had applied to the plan, and two million had received care. A total of 25,668 oral health providers are participating.
The May 29 launch marks the final rollout of applications for eligible adults.
The application process has opened in phases by age group:
- May 1: 55 to 64 years old
- May 15: 18 to 34 years old
- May 29: 35 to 54 years old
Also read: As CDCP opens to people aged 18 to 34, women in this group report highest rates of mouth pain
While the plan has gained wide support — including from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who has said it won’t be cut if he takes office — some critics have raised concerns that it could undermine private insurance coverage.
