Health Unit urges families to look into dental-care options
Dental appointment. By Erfan Amiri Free Use Domain Upsplash
By: Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News
Northumberland County
With eligibility expanding for the Canadian Dental Care Plan and changes to the Healthy Smiles Ontario program, the Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Health Unit encourages families to investigate available options.
And to ensure the best outcome, the health unit is offering to work with them.
The CDCP aims to make dental care more affordable for eligible Canadians, with applications currently open for seniors aged 65 and older, children under 18, and adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit.
Families with an adjusted family net income of no more than $90,000, with no private dental insurance, and who have filed their taxes are invited to submit one application per household for the program, which helps cover the cost of dental care – including regular check-ups, cleanings and treatments to keep teeth and gums healthy.
“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,” Health Promoter Anna Rusak said in the press release.
“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.”
Start by asking your current dental office if they accept CDCP. If you don't already have a dentist, you can look up CDCP-approved providers using Sun Life's online search tool or by calling Sun Life at 1-888-888-8110 for help.
After that step – and before stating any treatment – check your benefit start date and any costs you may need to pay.
Ask if there are any extra fees beyond what CDCP covers and, if so, request an estimate of the specific amount that will be owed. Families should not pay the full cost up front, as Sun Life will not reimburse them directly.
Families can apply for the CDCP online, or get help from the health unite. Visit Dental Health | HKPR District Health Unit for more information on who qualifies and how to apply.
The health unit is ready to answer questions and help with applications – call 1-866-888-4577 ext. 1247.
Families are reminded they must meet the eligibility requirements each year to continue to qualify for CDCP.
