UPDATE: January 2023

In Spring of 2023, the federal government promised new dental care which will provide coverage for uninsured Canadians with annual family income of less than $90,000.  When the 2023 budget was announced, it was revealed Canadians under 18, people with disabilities, and seniors would be able to be covered under the program this year with plans to cover 9 million eligible Canadians by 2025.

In December, the government announced further details about the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). However, from CARP’s point of view, information is still vague. CARP’s discussions with the Dental Association, elected officials and public servants make clear there are still many unanswered questions.  What precisely is covered? Who can access coverage and when? What are the copays?

What do we know?  Some time early in 2024, the government promises to come out with more details.  We also know that seniors 77  years old and older will be able to apply early in 2024. Other age groups will follow.  It will be late summer or early fall before the support actually kicks in.  We also understand that support will be contingent upon having filed taxes. Those who do not need to pay taxes, on account of their very low incomes, do not always file taxes.  We encourage everyone to file taxes, and this adds impetus given it will enable those eligible for the dental care support to receive it.

CARP is also concerned that there has been no word to-date on our advocacy to have dental hygienists be able to bill the government directly  for their services to residents of LTC facilities.

The Canadian Dental Association shares many of CARP’s concerns.  See their reaction here.

CARP members are urged not to delay needed dental work in expectation of an early national program.

As always, if you feel strongly, reach out to your elected officials and let them know you are not happy with how the situation is going.

Advocating for good oral and dental health is not just about pretty smiles. In fact, you might be surprised to know all the ways that poor dental health can impact older Canadians.

In 2014, the Nova Scotia Dental Association surveyed Nova Scotians about seniors’ oral health care.  Polls showed:

• Aging teeth are at increased risk for gum disease, root caries (decay which often leads to tooth loss), soft-tissue lesions and significant tooth wear.
• Gum disease can damage the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place and may lead to painful chewing problems. In cases of severe gum disease, some people may lose their teeth.Broken or damaged teeth, abscesses, gum disease and other oral problems can lead to an inability to eat, swallow, or speak. These symptoms often go overlooked, and without proper access to care, pose a great danger.
• Poor or undiagnosed oral problems can lead to the development of lung infections such as pneumonia, especially for seniorswho have a hard time swallowing. Pneumonia may be caused by the inhalation of harmful types of mouth bacteria, which accumulate when the mouth is not cleaned properly and regularly. Good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of such bacteria going into the lungs.
• People with diabetes are more at risk for mouth infections, especially gum (periodontal) disease. Gum disease may also make it harder for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels.
• Gum disease may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Poor oral health may increase the number of harmful bacteria found in the mouth, which may release toxins into the blood that can damage heart tissue.
• Bacteria that cause gum disease are present in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s.
• Oral health and oral hygiene status amongst dependent older adults is frequently poor. For some, because it has been given low priority in long-term care, and for those who are independent, there can be issues with dexterity, mobility and resources to fund care.
• Poor oral health can lower self-esteem and reduce social interactions.
• Poor oral health is associated with lower quality of life.