March 24, 2025 - Ottawa: With the upcoming federal election, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is launching its federal policy platform urging all political parties to make oral health a priority by improving access to care for Canadians and ensuring better oral health outcomes nationwide.
“The connection between oral health and overall well-being is clear,” says CDA President, Dr. Joel Antel. “Canadians overwhelmingly see oral healthcare as a priority, and this election presents an opportunity for policymakers to prioritize sustainable, patient-centred solutions.”
CDA’s Key Advocacy Priorities for the Federal Election:
- Sustainable, Long-term Federal Investments in Oral Healthcare – Federal investment in oral healthcare will improve access to care for millions of Canadians and 76% of Canadians believe ongoing federal investment in oral health is essential.
- Protection for Employer-Sponsored Dental Coverage – About two-thirds of Canadians rely on employer-sponsored dental benefits to access the care they need. However, many employers may reduce dental benefits for employees who may be eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and 11% of Canadians say this has already happened to them.
- Support for the Oral Healthcare Sector in Addressing Critical Workforce Shortages – Canada is facing a growing shortage of dental hygienists and dental assistants, making it harder for patients to access timely care. Without action, these shortages will only get worse, limiting access to essential dental care for Canadians.
The CDA’s Federal Election Policy Platform outlines the necessary steps to ensure Canada’s dental care system remains strong, sustainable, and patient-focused. CDA urges federal parties to review the platform and commit to making oral health a priority.
To read the full policy platform, [Download here].
About the Canadian Dental Association
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is a trusted national voice for dentists and leader working to improve the oral health of all people living in Canada. We promote oral health, support our members, and advance the dental profession. Founded in 1902, CDA has no regulatory role and is a federally incorporated not-for-profit organization whose corporate members are Canada’s provincial and territorial dental associations (PTDAs). We represent over 21,000 practising dentists nationwide and are a trusted brand and source of information about oral health and the dental profession on national and international issues.
Media Contact:
Canadian Dental Association
613-523-7963
media@cda-adc.ca
