Officials with the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) are encouraging families to check in with the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) as it continues to expand its eligibility.
Officials say due to changes in the CDCP, and the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) programs, parents and guardians should inform themselves on how both programs work together and know that public health is there to help people navigate the application process.
The CDCP is a federal initiative to make dental care more affordable. It was initially aimed at Canadians 65 and older, children under the age of 18 and adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate.
According to officials, as of last month, the program expanded to include certain adults between the ages of 18 and 64.
“Good oral health is fundamental to overall well-being, and programs like HSO and the CDCP play a critical role in making dental care accessible to qualifying children and youth,” said Anna Rusak, Health Promoter, with the HKPR District Health Unit. “And with an increasing number of dental providers asking patients to enroll in CDCP, we want to make sure families are aware and prepared. We are here to help them through the application process.”
Officials invite families to apply through one application for their household. CDCP eligibility is open to people of all ages, families with a net income of $90,000 or less, those who do not have private dental insurance and who have filed their taxes.
They say the program aids in covering costs of dental care, which includes regular check-ups, cleanings, and treatments.
To apply for the CDCP visit Canadian Dental Care Plan – Apply – Canada.ca or to receive assistance from the Health Unit visit Dental Health | HKPR District Health Unit
