The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has released a statement in response to the Federal Government’s proposed federal dental program. This landmark program is expected to improve dental access for millions of Canadians. Therefore, the CDA has welcomed the announcement. They aim to work with the Federal Government over the coming years as part of the program.
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has responded to the Canadian Federal Government’s announcement of a proposed new federal dental program.
The CDA released a statement, where they reacted positively to the news. However, they did voice a degree of concern over fears that recent progress that has been made could be slowed down.
The dental program aims to increase dental coverage for millions of Canadians considered to have a low income. The dental program should be beneficial for millions of people around Canada.
About the proposed federal dental program
The federal dental program was announced by the Liberal Party. They reached an agreement with the NDP, as part of a wider confidence-and-supply agreement between the two parties, designed to keep the Liberal Party in power until 2025 [1].
The program would be for families with an income of less than $90,000 annually [1]. The program aims to involve both preventative and restorative services. For example, this would include routine examinations and cavity fillings.
Currently, the dental program is planned to begin later in 2022, before two further phases will take place [1]. The full rollout is expected in 2025.
The CDA’s response
The CDA responded to the agreement in a positive way. They said at the outset of their statement that “all Canadians have a right to good oral health” [2].
Moreover, they note that they have always supported efforts to improve access to oral healthcare for all, with particular focus on those from certain demographics or groups, including seniors, those with disabilities, indigenous people and low-income families [2].
The CDA mention the need to “invest in, and enhance, existing provincial and territorial dental programs” [2]. This refers to existing efforts, and how the Federal Government can’t afford to get complacent with current programs.
They suggest that such efforts are the “single best way” to improve oral health and access to healthcare [2]. However, the CDA also state that such programs are underfunded.
Therefore, the CDA have said that the Federal Government’s dental program left them “surprised” [2]. It appears that the history of dental programs being underfunded has resulted in surprise and concern from the CDA as to whether or not this program will be a success.
The CDA finished their statement by stating that they are looking forward to “collaborating closely with the Federal Government as it works to address the oral health needs of Canadians” [2].
The bigger picture
The CDA have certainly responded in a positive manner. However, they have also promoted caution, mainly due to concerns over past problems with dental programs.
The CDA will hope that this dental program doesn’t stunt the progress that has been made with dental coverage in recent years. Instead, they will hope that it complements it.
Dental coverage is an issue that continues to affect many people. Past research has found that in a 12-month period, just 75% of Canadians visited a dentist, with 23% being put off from visiting due to the cost [3]. This represents a sizeable amount of people who do not get dental check-ups.
Overall, this is positive news for many Canadians. Everyone deserves oral healthcare, and this plan should help millions more people receive much-needed help.
Thinking points…
1) The CDA have consistently promoted improved access to dental care. Another key area that they emphasize is the importance of attending regular dental check-ups. This is an important part of maintaining strong oral hygiene. We recommend having a check-up at least twice a year. Consider booking one now!
2) What do you think of the agreement on improved dental coverage? Are you pleased with it? If you can pinpoint anyone that might benefit from it, encourage them to attend a dental check up soon, rather than wait, as early detection of problems are important. This can also get them into good habits going forward.
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.
We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and implants.
It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
[1] Tunney, C. (2022). Liberals agree to launch dental care program in exchange for NDP support. Available: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/trudeu-jagmeet-singh-deal-government-1.6393021. Last accessed: 26th March 2022.
[2] Canadian Dental Association. (2022). CDA Responds to Federal Government Considering New Federal Dental Program. Available: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/about/media_room/statements/dental_program_funding/index.asp. Last accessed: 26th March 2022.
[3] Statistics Canada. (2019). Dental Care, 2018. Available: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-625-x/2019001/article/00010-eng.htm. Last accessed: 26th March 2022.
