Canadian Dental Care Plan – Why are so few people applying? AND how we can help!

 

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) was designed to help millions of Canadians access preventive dental care including assessments, cleanings, x-rays, Fluoride and more.

 

But if you’re feeling confused about how it works, who qualifies, or where to start… you’re not alone.

 

At To The Root Dental Hygiene, we’ve met many people who are eligible,  but they haven’t applied yet. Here’s why that might be happening, and what we can do about it.

 

1. Not Enough People Know It Exists

Many patients especially moms and seniors have never heard of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Others have heard the name, but they still aren’t sure what it covers or if they qualify.

We recommend:
Talking to friends and family about it
Checking out Canada.ca/dental
Asking your dental hygiene provider (like us!) for help

2. The Application Process Feels Confusing

While applying online is fast (less than 5 minutes) and free, people may feel overwhelmed by questions like:

• “Will this affect my taxes?”
• “What if I get denied?”
• “Do I have to apply every year?”
• “Will I have to pay it back?”

WE GET IT.  That’s why we’re happy to explain what the application involves – or walk through it with you.

3. Tax Filing Requirements Block Some People

To qualify, you must have filed your taxes last year, and you must continue to keep them up to date year for year.

Our tip: Reach out to a free community tax clinic (Seniors Outreach) or ask us for resources.

 

4. People Think They’re Not Eligible (Even When They Are)

Eligibility has rolled out slowly, and that’s caused some confusion. Some people think they’re “not the right age” when they actually could apply today (YES, right now even).

 

Who’s eligible right now?
•Canadians with no dental coverage
•Household income under $90,000
•Tax return filed last year

You don’t have to wait — check if you qualify now.

 

5. Fear That It’s “Too Good to Be True”

Government programs often come with skepticism. Some patients worry they’ll be stuck with a bill, or that it won’t cover the care they actually need. The reality is that there is a tiered system; depending on your income level, you may only be covered for 40%, 60%, or 100% and some clinics fees may be higher than what the CDCP pays…

But CDCP covers essential dental hygiene services, and everything can be checked ahead of time, so if you’re going to owe, then it should be known at your appointment.

 

6. Not All Clinics Accept CDCP … But We Do!

At To The Root Dental Hygiene, we proudly accept CDCP patients and are happy to support you every step of the way. From applying, to explaining what’s covered, to providing quality preventive care, we’re here for you.

Why Apply?

Because oral health is connected to your whole-body health. And because cleanings, exams, and preventive care shouldn’t be out of reach.

If you qualify, then this plan could make a real difference, so please share it with everyone you know!

Need help? Just ask. We’re here to guide you through it.

And if you’re ready, then you can schedule an appointment with us online at totherootdh.ca

We want to hear from you! What would you like to learn about?