Canada expands dental care eligibility for millions ahead of election

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) will expand to include Canadians aged 18 to 64 without dental insurance, as announced by Health Minister Kamal Khera. Applications will open in May with coverage starting as early as June 1, 2024. Eligible applicants must have filed their 2024 tax return, have an adjusted family net income below $90,000, and be residents for tax purposes. This expansion is expected to benefit up to 4.5 million uninsured Canadians, building on previous phases that covered seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities. The announcement comes at a politically significant time, as a federal election is anticipated soon, raising questions about the future funding of the program under potential Conservative leadership. The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association has praised the expansion, highlighting its potential to reduce the burden on the healthcare system.