Employer-Sponsored Benefits One of the most pressing concerns for dentists is the impact of the CDCP on employer-sponsored dental benefits. Currently, two-thirds of Canadians receive dental coverage through their employer, but as public coverage expands, some businesses have begun to scale back or eliminate private dental benefits. Eleven percent of Canadians have already seen reductions in their workplace dental plans due to the introduction of the CDCP. Although increased federal support for oral health care is a positive step, these shifts raise important questions about how the public and private systems will coexist. The reduction of employer health plans could overwhelm the public system, resulting in increased wait times and limited provider options for patients. For dentists, understanding these trends and advocating for policies that maintain a balance between public funding and private coverage options is essential. Workforce Challenges Beyond funding and coverage, another challenge looms large: a pending shortage of dental hygienists and dental assistants. Across the country, dental offices are feeling the strain of a shrinking workforce. Hiring qualified people for these roles has become increasingly difficult, leading to longer wait times for patients and added pressure on existing dental teams. According to CDA estimates, Canada will need at least 2,300 more dental assistants and 1,500 additional hygienists by 2025 to meet the growing demand, particularly as the CDCP rolls out to include more eligible patients. Without targeted strategies to recruit, train, and retain skilled professionals, the gap between demand and available workforce could continue to widen. Addressing these shortages will require a multi-faceted approach, including incentives for new professionals, expanded training programs, and policies that attract and retain skilled workers in the field. Why Dentists Should Get Involved With so many changes looming on the horizon, it is more important than ever for dentists to stay engaged in the political process. Policymakers rely on insights from professionals in the field to make informed decisions, and the election period is a key time for advocacy. Engaging with local candidates, participating in professional discussions, and staying informed about policy developments are all ways that dental professionals can help shape the future of oral healthcare in Canada. CDA is encouraging dentists to take part in advocacy efforts by reaching out to policymakers, sharing concerns about workforce challenges, and reinforcing the importance of protecting both public and private dental coverage. The next federal election will impact the future of dentistry in Canada, and the decisions made today will have lasting effects on both patient care and the profession as a whole. As discussions about health care and public policy unfold, ensuring that oral health remains a central topic will be essential in building a system that works for everyone. CDA’s federal election policy platform can be accessed at: bit.ly/4iMFuzi 12 | 2025 | Issue 2 CDA at Work
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