Health Unit Encourages Families to Access Free or Low-Cost Dental Care

Media Release by Peterborough Public Health:

JULY 23, 2025 – As eligibility expands for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) (now legally merged) are encouraging families to explore this federal program to ensure they continue to receive the dental coverage they need. With changes to both the CDCP and the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program, it’s important that parents and guardians understand how these programs work together, and public health is here to help them navigate the application process with confidence.

The CDCP is a federal government initiative aimed at making dental care more affordable for eligible Canadians. Applications are currently open for seniors aged 65 and older, children under 18, and adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate. As of last month, the program has expanded to include all
eligible adults between the ages of 18 and 64. “

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,” said Anna Rusak, Health Promoter, with the HKPR District Health Unit. “And 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.”

What Families Need to Know About CDCP
With CDCP now being open to all ages, families with an adjusted family net income of $90,000 or less, with
no private dental insurance and who have filed their taxes are invited to submit one application for their
household. This program helps cover the cost of dental care, including regular check-ups, cleanings, and
treatments to help keep teeth and gums healthy.

Families who qualify for CDCP will receive a package from Sun Life, the company managing the program.
This package will include a member card, program details, and the start date for benefits. It is important to
wait until this start date before booking any dental appointments.

Finding a Dentist Who Accepts CDCP
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. When making an appointment, and before starting any treatment always:

• Confirm that the dentist accepts CDCP clients.
• 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 or the
  specific amount that will be owed.

How to Apply
Families can apply for the CDCP online or get help from the Health Unit. Visit http://www.hkpr.on.ca/CDCP 
for more information on who qualifies and how to apply. The Health Unit is ready to answer any questions
and help with applications. Call 1-866-888-4577 extension 1247. Families are reminded they must meet the
eligibility requirements each year to continue to qualify for the CDCP.