With a federal election now set for April 28, 2025, CDA is encouraging dentists to engage in discussions about oral health care policies. CDA produced a Federal Election Policy Platform and Toolkit, highlighting key priorities that will impact patients and the dental profession. Ensuring that Oral Health Remains a Priority in the Federal Election For many Canadians, dental care is more than just routine checkups—it is a critical part of overall health and well-being. Yet, despite growing recognition of its importance, access to dental care remains uneven across the country. Financial barriers, workforce shortages, and shifting coverage policies continue to shape how and where Canadians receive care. As the federal election approaches, CDA is encouraging dentists to be part of the conversation and help shape policies that will impact the profession. Federal Investment in Dental Care In recent years, the federal government has taken steps to expand access to dental care, most notably through the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Although the program aims to make care more accessible for lowerincome Canadians, the broader landscape of oral health care remains complex. Many Canadians still struggle with affordability—nearly half of low-income individuals avoid dental visits due to cost. Public support for continued investment in oral health is strong, with 76% of Canadians believing that ongoing federal funding is necessary. With dental care now ranking among the top ten concerns for voters, the upcoming federal election presents an opportunity to solidify oral health care as a long-term federal priority. For dentists, this means ensuring that new policies support high-quality, sustainable care while recognizing the role of private practices and employer-sponsored benefits. 11 Issue 2 | 2025 |
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