fACT Sheet: Canadian Dental Care Plan

Introduction 

Although Canada is known for universal health care, the scope of this program is fairly limited, and does not cover all health needs a person may have. Prescription drugs, eyeglasses, medical supplies, and dental care, all require a workplace or personal health benefit program to fully or partially cover the cost, or else be entirely paid out of pocket. 

In order to address the barrier to access for all, the Canadian government has been phasing in universal access to dental care. This fACT Sheet seeks to inform the reader on recent developments into a federal dental care program. In light of the Alberta government’s recent declaration that they intend to opt out of the program by 2026, we will outline the implications of what is at stake for marginalized populations seeking dental care if this were to happen.