This year, many changes have been made to federal dental care in Canada. It can be difficult to keep up with updates and know what you as the patient need to maximize coverage you need. Fortunately, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own—your dentist can help you understand how it works in the real world. Here is some basic information to start a foundation of dental insurance understanding.
The CDCP or Another Public Plan Helps with Cost.
If you and your family have a net income of under $90,000, you can qualify and apply for the universal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), especially if you are a senior, have children under age 18, or have disabilities. Patients with higher incomes may take advantage of other public programs. Although this low- to middle-income plan covers many required services including preventive and diagnostic, restorative, endodontic, and periodontal, it may not pay for the entire total for everything. You may be responsible for part of the price out-of-pocket.
Still, you can rely on this plan and other public programs to defray some of that cost, helping you more easily afford your portion of oral healthcare treatment. Just make sure your dentist works with these plans!
Private Dental Insurance Is Available and Recommended.
Depending on your needs, you may want to consider getting private dental insurance benefits. Fortunately, many employers offer assistance with supplement plans that can offer even better coverage. Alternatively, you can seek out a plan on your own as well. Do your research to see which one will serve you and your family the best.
You May Have to Pay Additional Charges Later.
Something to keep in mind about either the CPDP or private insurance is only your dental provider will be reimbursed. In other words, you shouldn’t pay the entire amount in full upfront because you will not be paid back by the CPDP. Make sure you only pay your projected portion of the bill but be aware that you may need to pay again later to make up for what the plan doesn’t cover. For instance, you pay your estimated cost at the time of service, but if your insurance plan doesn’t approve all the rest, you may need to pay an additional charge after the fact.
In the end, this topic can be complicated, but knowing the basics can at least get you going and help you get an idea of what you and your family may need to take care of your smiles!
About the Practice
In Mississauga, ON, Meadowvale Family Dentistry offers care for the entire family. Dr. Mayank Patel and Dr. Ka Biu Ip have decades of training and experience assisting patients of all ages with various needs, ranging from simple diagnostic and preventive care to complex restorative services. We are also proud to be insurance friendly! If you would like to schedule an appointment, you may request one here or call our office at 905-821-0011.