Does the Canada Dental Plan Really Cover Implants? Here’s the Truth

Dental health is essential, but expensive procedures like dental implants often leave Canadians wondering if they’ll ever get affordable access. The newly launched Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) has generated a lot of buzz. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: Does the Canada Dental Plan really cover dental implants?

In this blog, we’ll uncover the truth about implant coverage, explain what the CDCP includes (and what it doesn’t), and provide clear guidance on your dental care options moving forward.

What Is the Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canada Dental Care Plan is a government initiative launched in 2023, aimed at making dental care accessible and affordable for millions of Canadians who previously struggled without insurance.

The plan provides free or subsidized dental services for:

• Children under 12
  
• Seniors over 65
  
• People with disabilities
  
• Families earning less than $90,000 annually without private dental insurance
  

The goal is to reduce financial barriers to basic and preventive dental care—things like check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and minor procedures.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jawbone, allowing dentists to replace missing teeth with durable, natural-looking crowns or bridges.

Key benefits include:

• Long-lasting durability (often lasting decades)
  
• Natural function for chewing and speaking
  
• Preservation of jawbone health
  

However, dental implants come at a high price. On average, a single implant costs $3,000 to $6,000 or more, making it one of the most expensive dental treatments.

Does the Canada Dental Care Plan Cover Dental Implants?

Here’s the straightforward answer:

No, dental implants are currently NOT covered under the Canada Dental Care Plan.

The CDCP prioritizes basic dental care and essential restorative treatments in its initial phase. The plan mainly covers:

• Exams, X-rays, and cleanings
  
• Fillings and simple extractions
  
• Root canals and basic dentures (in limited cases)
  

Dental implants fall under “major restorative services,” which are not included in the plan’s current coverage.

Why Aren’t Dental Implants Covered?

The exclusion of implants from the Canada Dental Care Plan comes down to several factors:

1. High Costs

Dental implants are significantly more expensive than other treatments. Covering implants universally would require a massive budget increase, which isn’t feasible during the plan’s initial rollout.

2. Focus on Basic Care First

The government aims to address the most urgent dental needs affecting the greatest number of people. Basic care and prevention take precedence to reduce widespread dental diseases.

3. Phased Rollout

The CDCP is designed as a multi-phase program. As funding and infrastructure improve, coverage may expand to include more advanced procedures like implants.

What Alternatives Does the Canada Dental Plan Offer?

If you’re missing teeth and can’t get implants through the CDCP, the plan supports these options:

• Dentures: Full or partial dentures are the most common solution covered by the plan. They restore appearance and function but may not be as comfortable or durable as implants.
  
• Bridges: In some cases, fixed bridges may be covered to replace one or two missing teeth adjacent to natural teeth.
  

While these options don’t offer the longevity or stability of implants, they provide essential dental restoration at a much lower cost.

Will Implants Be Covered in the Future?

There is hope for implant coverage in the long term.

Officials have indicated that major restorative treatments like implants could be added in future phases of the Canada Dental Care Plan. This depends on:

• Funding availability
  
• Demand and public feedback
  
• Political will and priorities
  

It’s important to stay updated with official government announcements, as coverage guidelines could evolve over the coming years.

What Can You Do If You Need Implants Now?

If you require dental implants but aren’t covered by the CDCP, consider these options:

1. Provincial or Territorial Programs

Some provinces offer additional dental benefits for low-income seniors or disabled persons that may cover implants on a case-by-case basis.

2. Dental Schools

University dental programs often provide discounted services, including implants, performed by supervised dental students.

3. Financing Options

Many dental clinics provide payment plans or financing to spread the cost of implants over months or years.

4. Health Spending Accounts (HSAs)

If you’re self-employed or your employer offers HSAs, these accounts let you use pre-tax dollars to pay for dental implants.

Summary: The Truth About Dental Implants and the Canada Dental Plan

• The Canada Dental Care Plan does not currently cover dental implants.
  
• The plan focuses on basic and essential dental care for low-income Canadians.
  
• Dentures and bridges are the main tooth replacement options covered.
  
• Implants may be included in future phases but no guarantee yet.
  
• Alternative funding and services exist for those needing implants now.
  
  
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are dental implants covered by the Canada Dental Care Plan today?
A: No, implants are excluded from current coverage.

Q: Can I appeal to get implants covered under CDCP?
A: Only in very rare, medically necessary cases with thorough documentation.

Q: What should I do if I need implants but have no coverage?
A: Explore provincial programs, dental schools, financing options, or HSAs.

Q: When might implants become covered?
A: Possibly in future phases; stay updated with government announcements.