Canada Expands Dental Care Program for Low-Income Canadians

As Canada gears up for a federal election, the Canadian Dental Association has outlined its demands for long-term investments in oral health care, assistance with workforce challenges, and protection of employer-sponsored dental coverage. This comes as the government announced an expansion of its dental care program, allowing Canadians with household incomes below $90,000 and lacking private insurance to apply starting May 1. Health Minister Kamal Khera emphasized that the program, which began for seniors in December 2023, aims to provide preventative care and has already assisted 1.7 million Canadians. The eligibility will gradually expand to include more age groups throughout May, with coverage set to begin in June. Meanwhile, the Conservative party has not clarified its stance on the program's future funding. The Canadian Dental Association is urging all political parties to prioritize oral health in their platforms.