Many individuals believe that they only have to go to the dentist when they are in pain. But the reality is that regular cleanings and check-ups are the greatest method of preventing issues from ever arising. By having routine appointments, professionals are able to identify minor problems, such as a small cavity, and address them before they become serious. This prevents you from having a big, painful, and costly problem down the road, such as requiring a root canal or losing a tooth. With plans like the Canadian dental care plan for seniors, more patients will be able to afford these preventive appointments and avoid serious dental issues.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan for Seniors and Others
You might have heard of the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). This is a big deal, particularly for older adults and many other individuals who did not previously have a dental plan. The government developed this plan to enable more Canadians to access dental care. It’s not completely free dental care, but it does cover much of the cost. This is a lifesaver for many of my patients.
So, who is this plan for? It’s for Canadian residents who have a household income under $90,000 and who don’t have access to a private dental plan. It is being introduced in stages. Seniors aged 65 and over were the first group to receive coverage, and now other groups such as children, people with disabilities, and low-income families are also being added.
Here is a simple way to look at how much the plan covers
|
Adjusted Family Net Income |
How much the CDCP covers | How much will you cover (your part) |
|
Under $70,000 |
100% of eligible costs |
0% |
|
$70,000 to $79,999 |
60% of the eligible costs |
40% |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 40% of the eligible costs |
60% |
This means that depending on your income, you will be responsible for a percentage of the total cost. This is called a “co-payment.” It’s important to know this so there are no surprises when you come for your appointment.
What Does the Plan Cover?
The CDCP covers a wide range of services that are important for your oral health. This includes things like
- Diagnostic Services: This is just a fancy way of saying exams and x-rays. These are needed to see what’s going on inside your mouth.
- Preventive Services: Cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants. These help prevent problems in the first place.
- Restorative Services: Services like fillings for cavities.
- Endodontic Services: This includes root canals, which are needed when a tooth’s nerve becomes infected or damaged.
- Prosthodontic Services: This covers dentures, which are false teeth that help you chew and smile.
- Periodontal Services: This is care for your gums, like a deep cleaning.
- Oral Surgery: This is for taking teeth out, like extractions.
Some of the more complex treatments, like crowns and some dentures, may require pre-authorization. This means one has to check with the plan first to make sure it will cover it.
Finding the Right Dentist
With this new plan, it’s easier to find a dentist near you who can help you use your benefits. You should look for a dental clinic that is a part of the CDCP network. You can check the official government website to find a list of participating dental offices.
What is the Best Dental Insurance Plan?
This is a question I get asked a lot, and the answer is different for everyone. What is the best dental insurance plan for you? It depends on what you need. Are you a senior, a young family, or someone with a lot of dental needs? The best plan is one that fits your life and your budget.
For many, the CDCP is a wonderful option. But if you don’t qualify for the CDCP, there are other private plans. You should look for a plan that covers the services you think you might need. For example, some plans cover more for things like dental implants, while others focus on basic care.
What Are The Best Dental Insurance Plans For Seniors?
If you are a senior who doesn’t qualify for the CDCP, you still have options. Many private insurance companies have special plans for seniors. These plans often focus on things that seniors need, like dentures, crowns, and treating gum disease. When you are looking at these plans, make sure to ask about the annual maximum (the most they will pay in a year) and any waiting periods before certain services are covered.
Regardless of what plan you choose, the key is to utilize it. Do not wait until your tooth hurts. Visit a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your smile says a lot about who you are, and it’s worth preserving.
Save Money, Protect Oral Health With Dental Plans!
IONA Dental Office offers complete dental care for patients of all ages. Our team of dentist near you focuses on preventive care, routine checkups, and treatments to keep your teeth as well as gums healthy. We use safe methods and modern equipment to make every visit comfortable. Whether you need a cleaning or cosmetic treatment, we are here to help.
Visit IONA Dental Office for quality dental care.