Dental-care program hits 1 million patients in first six months, coverage expands

By David Baxter, The Canadian Press on October 31, 2024.

OTTAWA – Health Minister Mark Holland says a million Canadians have received care under the federal dental-care plan six months after the program began.

Starting Friday, the program will also cover more complex procedures.

That means people who have coverage under the federal program can request pre-authorization for things like crowns and the initial placement of partial dentures.

Paper claims will also be accepted, something Holland says will mean that more dentists are eligible to work under the program.

Eighty-nine per cent of oral health providers in the country are providing some form of care under the program, according to Holland.

The program is currently available for seniors, adults on the federal disability tax credit and children under 18.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 31, 2024.

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