Ep. 592: Canadian Dental Plan: Is it Working?
Guest: Dr. Bruce Ward (President of the Canadian Dental Association)
“The Canadian Dental Care Plan is working – sorta,” says Dr. Bruce Ward, the President of the Canadian Dental Association. Ward goes on to say, “As of the end of 2025, more than 5.5 million people were approved for coverage. However, not all of them have received care.” According to government figures, 3.5 million people have seen a dentist. The number of people approved is growing and is expected to reach 9 million.
It’s not free dental care, as was first promoted by the government. “One of the interesting challenges dentists face are patients who are shocked to learn the plan only covers a portion of the cost,” says Ward. “That confusion has led to a number of uncomfortable conversations for dentists who rather than care for a patient are taking valuable time to outline the rules of the plan.”
While the program has been embraced by dentists across the country, there have been growing pains. “Not all dentists have signed on because of issues around pre-authorization, fees, and the amount of administrative work,” says Ward. Even with the drawbacks, according to a 2025 survey by the Canadian Dental Association, “patients report satisfaction and positive experiences. The number of Canadians with a dentist, as a result, has increased to 71% [and] up to 63% a year earlier.”
We invited Dr. Bruce Ward, President of the Canadian Dental Association, to join us for a Conversation That Matters about the Dental Care Plan, how it’s working and if it will stay.
Want to learn more about our guests?
Check out their episodes on our partnered program!
