Making Dental Care More Accessible: Canada Dental Benefit & Canadian Dental Care Plan
At Smile Matters, we’re committed to helping our patients access the dental care they need—especially when cost may be a barrier. The Canada Dental Benefit and the Canadian Dental Care Plan are government initiatives designed to support families and seniors in accessing essential dental treatments.
Canada Dental Benefit – For Children Under 12
The Canada Dental Benefit is a temporary federal program that provides financial support for families earning less than $90,000 annually. It is specifically intended to help parents and guardians cover dental costs for children under the age of 12 who do not have private dental insurance.
Am I Eligible?
- Your child is under 12 years old.
- Your family earns less than $90,000 per year.
- Your child does not have access to private dental insurance.
- You have out-of-pocket dental expenses.
Eligible families can receive tax-free payments ranging from $260 to $650 per child, depending on their income. Applications must be submitted through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website and are open until June 30, 2024.
What’s Covered?
- Exams and cleanings
- Fillings and extractions
- Root canal treatments
- Orthodontic consultations
Canada Dental Care Plan – For Seniors
If you’re a senior aged 65 or older, you may soon qualify for the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which aims to provide affordable dental coverage for seniors without private insurance.
Application Timeline:
- Ages 70 and older: Watch for application instructions by mail by March 2024.
- Ages 65–69: Online applications will be available in May 2024.
Public Dental Programs in Ontario
In addition to federal programs, Ontario offers several publicly funded dental programs for:
- Low-income families
- Seniors
- Individuals with disabilities
- Eligible newcomers to Canada
How Smile Matters Can Help
Whether you’re applying for the Canada Dental Benefit for your child or preparing to enroll in the Canadian Dental Care Plan as a senior, Smile Matters is proud to provide compassionate, affordable care. Our experienced dental team is here to support your family at every stage—ensuring healthy smiles for years to come.