The Canadian Dental Association Magazine 2026 • Volume 13 • Issue 1 PM40064661 Preserving the Artifacts and Stories of Canada’s Dental Past Page 22 + IN THIS ISSUE Dr. Scott Leckie: NIHB Program P. 17 Inside Days on the Hill P. 8 Dr. Lesley Williams: A Life Without Limits P. 28
About CDA Founded in 1902, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is a federally incorporated not-for-profit organization whose corporate members are Canada’s provincial and territorial dental associations. CDA represents over 21,000 practising dentists nationwide and is a trusted brand and source of information for and about the dental profession on national and international issues. is the official print publication of CDA, providing dialogue between the national association and the dental community. It is dedicated to keeping dentists informed about news, issues and clinically relevant information. 2026 • Volume 13 • Issue 1 Head of Governance & Communications Zelda Burt Managing Editor Sean McNamara Writer/Editor Sierra Bellows Gabriel Fulcher Pauline Mérindol Publications Specialist Michelle Bergeron Graphic Designer Carlos Castro Advertising: For all Display, Online and Classified advertising inquiries, or to request the 2026 CDA Media Kit, contact: Michelle Bergeron, CDA Publications Specialist mbergeron@cda-adc.ca CDA Essentials is available online at cda-adc.ca/essentials. All display and classified advertisements are included in the full PDF version, with direct links to corporate/ product websites. The online CDA Essentials generates >21,000 page views monthly. Contacts: Michelle Bergeron, CDA Publications Specialist mbergeron@cda-adc.ca CDA Essentials email: publications@cda-adc.ca Notice of change of address send to: reception@cda-adc.ca or publications@cda-adc.ca @CdnDentalAssoc canadian-dentalassociation Canadian Dental Association cdndentalassoc cdaoasis cda-adc.ca CDA Essentials is published by the Canadian Dental Association in both official languages. Publications Mail Agreement no. 40064661. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Canadian Dental Association, 1815 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON K1G 3Y6 Postage paid at Ottawa, ON. ISSN 2292-7360 (Print) ISSN 2292-7379 (Online) © Canadian Dental Association 2026 Cover Photo: Courtesy of Canadian Museum of Health Care Editorial Disclaimer All statements of opinion and supposed fact are published on the authority of the author who submits them and do not necessarily express the views of the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Publication of an advertisement or sponsored content does not necessarily imply that CDA agrees with or supports the claims therein. The editorial department reserves the right to edit all copy submitted to CDA Essentials. Furthermore, CDA is not responsible for typographical errors, grammatical errors, misspelled words or syntax that is unclear, or for errors in translations. Sponsored content is solely produced by advertisers. The CDA Essentials editorial department is not involved in its creation. CDA Board of Directors President Dr. Bruce Ward Dr. Raymon Grewal British Columbia Dr. Brian Baker Saskatchewan President-Elect Dr. Kirk Preston Vice-President Dr. Jason Noel Dr. Joy Carmichael New Brunswick Dr. Jerrold Diamond Alberta Dr. Mélissa Gagnon-Grenier NWT/Nunavut/Yukon Dr. Lesli Hapak Ontario Dr. Paul Hurley Newfoundland/Labrador Dr. Stuart MacDonald Nova Scotia Dr. Marc Mollot Manitoba Dr. Janice Stewart Prince Edward Island 3 Issue 1 | 2026 |
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Contents The Canadian Dental Association Magazine 2026 • Volume 13 • Issue 1 8 17 CDA at Work 7 From the President: Advocacy in Action 8 Inside Days on the Hill 12 What the Latest Public Opinion Data Tells us About Oral Health in Canada News and Events 15 Dental Digest 17 Dr. Scott Leckie: The NIHB Program and the Power of Compassionate Dentistry Issues and People 20 Dental Clinic in the Diefenbunker 22 Crawford Dental Collection: Preserving the Artifacts and Stories of Canada’s Dental Past 28 Dr. Lesley Williams: A Life Without Limits Classifieds 34 Offices and Practices, Positions Available and Advertisers’ Index Supporting Your Practice 32 Know The Law: Social Media and Your Dental Team Did You Know 37 Caring for Teeth During Different Historical Periods 20 28 5 Issue 1 | 2026 |
NATIONAL ORAL HEALTH CONVENTION APRIL 16–18 THURSDAY APRIL 16 Trade Show Reception & Keynote Address: Steven Page (formerly of Barenaked Ladies) Ending the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health & Overcoming Adversity FRIDAY APRIL 17 All Canadian Speaker Line-Up Opening Keynote: Niigaan Sinclair: Ten Years since the TRC: Why Are Dentists the Key to Reconciliation? All-Canadian Dentist Speakers from Across Canada Dental Assistants Lectures & Courses Dental Hygienist Lectures & Courses Office Managers Workshop Series SATURDAY APRIL 18 Manitoba’s Got Talent: Interdisciplinary Case Presentations by U of MB Dental Residents Fact vs Fiction: Understanding AI’s Role in Shaping Oral Healthcare Dental Assistants Lectures & Courses Dental Hygienist Lectures & Courses Presidents Gala TRADE SHOW REGISTRATION NOW OPEN ManitobaDentist.ca ATTENDEE REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 2025
Dr. Bruce Ward president@cda-adc.ca Advocacy in Action In early November, I was in Ottawa alongside CDA staff to meet with the new Minister of Health, the Honourable Marjorie Michel. The meeting was intended to establish a constructive working relationship and to ensure that the Minister had a clear understanding of who we are, our responsibilities to the profession and public, and the knowledge and expertise we can provide to support her department’s work. We discussed oral health workforce challenges and their impact on providing oral heath care. We explained that more than 50% of dental practices in Canada have a staff vacancy. We also talked about the experience of oral health providers and patients with the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). This allowed us to explain the CDCP’s unintended effects on dental schools, including funding pressures, shifts in patient flow within teaching clinics and shifting dynamics in local communities as more patients gain coverage. We left encouraged by the discussion and confident that we had established a strong foundation for ongoing dialogue. When I returned to Ottawa for CDA’s Days on the Hill event a few weeks later (pg. 8), one of the Minister’s senior staff members met with the Canadian dental school deans who were part of our delegation. The staffer sought detailed information directly from the deans, drawing on their first-hand knowledge. This kind of engagement reflects effective advocacy: an ongoing conversation that keeps doors open and information flowing in both directions. Advocacy is the largest long-term investment our association makes in the dental profession. It is developed in the same way that trust is built within our dental practices: through relationships, consistency, credibility and preparation. The objective is not simply to secure a short-term outcome, but rather to be recognized as a trusted partner so that when the time comes to provide expertise, raise concerns or contribute to solutions, the profession has a credible voice at the table. This approach has guided CDA’s advocacy efforts with successive Ministers of Health and their departments, and it is one reason Health Canada regularly turns to CDA for information and advice. CDA’s Days on the Hill is the most visible part of our advocacy efforts, and it provides an important opportunity to bring dentistry directly into the national conversation through in-person meetings with parliamentarians. But most of our advocacy takes place throughout the year through ongoing collaboration and the cultivation of relationships. I have seen first-hand how CDA’s government relations team has remained closely engaged in discussions related to the CDCP from the outset, working with federal officials to ensure that dentistry is represented in a positive and constructive manner. CDA’s advocacy has been grounded in a clear principle: efforts to improve access to care, including the CDCP, can only succeed if supported by a sustainable oral health workforce. By anchoring discussions in the real-world capacity of dental professionals and educators, CDA continues to emphasize that effective oral health policy must support the profession’s long-term sustainability as well as the needs of the patients it serves. Recently, CDA has worked closely with the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry, supporting the faculty deans in strengthening their engagement with the federal government. As government becomes more attuned to the unintended impacts of the CDCP on dental education, continued dialogue—including the follow-up meeting requested by ministerial staff with the deans—demonstrates that progress is most achievable when we work together. When meaningful outcomes are achieved, they are the product of deliberate strategy and long-term relationships. The recent expansion of federal student loan program forgiveness for dentists and dental hygienists is one such example (pg. 15). As CDA president, I witness how well CDA represents the profession with clarity and authority as federal decisions are increasingly shaping the future of oral health care across the country. From the President 7 Issue 1 | 2026 | CDA at Work
(l to r) Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis, MP Dan Mazier, Dr. Bruce Ward Inside Days on the Hill Two days. Nearly 30 meetings. One message: oral health policy only works when it serves patients, providers and Canada’s future dentists. Days on the Hill is CDA’s annual opportunity to bring dentistry’s biggest issues directly to federal decision-makers. Over two days in November 2025, CDA board members, dentist volunteers, education leaders, and CDA staff met with Members of Parliament (MPs) to discuss a short list of priorities affecting patients and the dental profession across Canada. This year, the CDA delegation also included the deans of two Canadian dental schools and a fledgling dentist who graduated in 2025. The conversations, held in close to 30 meetings, were focused and practical: what’s happening, why it matters in specific constituencies, and what federal policy can do to help. The event featured a CDA booth, sponsored by MP Dan Mazier, on Parliament Hill where MPs and their teams could stop for informal, on-the-spot discussions. CDA was honoured to share the booth space with the Royal Canadian Dental Corps (RCDC). The RCDC highlighted its main operational engagements and the intricate connection between oral and physical health, underscoring the importance of dental care in supporting Canada’s national defence and well-being. Days on the Hill is about policy, but it’s also about relationship-building—creating continuity so that oral health remains a federal priority. CDA serves as a reliable partner for the federal government to help inform policies that impact oral health. “This is the one time of year when our advocacy committee, including six of our board members, comes to Ottawa to talk directly with MPs,” says Dr. Bruce Ward, CDA president. “We organize meetings with senior officials and MPs from all over the country, concentrating on two or three topics, to avoid overwhelming them.” (l to r) Dr. Marc Mollot, Dr. Aaron Burry, Dr. Bruce Ward, Dr. Walter Siqueira, Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis, Dr. Stuart MacDonald, MWO Martine Leboeuf, Col Geneviève Bussière 8 | 2026 | Issue 1
(l to r) Dr. Bruce Ward, Dr. Aaron Burry, Lucas Veiga, Duncan Barter, Clarissa Schurter, Mishail Bhatia This year, those issues were shaped by a federal political landscape with many new faces in Cabinet positions. With a wave of newly elected MPs on the Hill, CDA’s conversations also focused on advocating for policy solutions and sharing information about oral health. “The Canadian Dental Care Program (CDCP) is a new program, and many MPs are unfamiliar about how it works—who it serves, what the rules are. A lot of what we did this year was to educate officials and share information with them that they’ll need to share with their constituents,” says Dr. Ward. The Larger Dental Community “The booth in one of the main buildings on Parliament Hill was intended to attract attention and stimulate discussion,” Dr. Ward says. “It was designed to do what formal meetings can’t: create quick, informal conversations that catch MPs and their staff in the flow of their day.” Positioned in a high-traffic area, the booth gave CDA a visible presence where people could ask questions and discuss ideas, sometimes as a follow-up to meetings and sometimes as a first point of contact. “It was great to share the booth with the RCDC,” says Dr. Kirk Preston, CDA president-elect. “We were privileged to meet the Canadian Armed Forces’ Chief Dental Officer, Colonel Geneviève Bussière, and three other members of the corps, Major Monique Merino and Major Aaron Jolivet (Dental Officers), and Master Warrant Officer Martine Leboeuf (Dental Technician). Having them alongside the CDA added credibility to the conversations: broadening the story from ‘dentists advocating for dentistry’ to a wider picture of oral health as a national issue, that also matters to operational readiness and the people who serve our country. It also helped reinforce the idea that dentistry intersects with public service,” says Dr. Preston. Dr. Lesli Hapak, CDA board member from Ontario, felt that the booth was an effective way to connect with parliamentarians. “I liked the flexibility of the booth format,” she says. “This year, we highlighted dental workforce challenges and how they affect different parts of Canada in different ways.” Drawing on her experience with the Ontario Dental Association’s Political Action Committee, Dr. Hapak reflects on the scope of Days on the Hill. “Back in my first year, it just seemed so much bigger,” she says. “On Parliament Hill, we address concerns that affect every Canadian, not just those from one province or territory.” The Meetings During meetings at MP’s offices, Dr. Preston noticed a pattern almost immediately. “There are essentially two groups of MPs,” Dr. Preston says. “Those who are familiar with the CDCP or those who haven’t yet been exposed to it much. Depending on who we’re talking with, it can be a completely different conversation.” With many of the new MPs, he said, the context shifts. “Our role had more of an educational component,” Dr. Preston says. “We’re not going to start with detailed changes to improve the program, instead we focused on ensuring they understood the basics. This is important because constituents who are CDCP patients may turn to MPs to ask questions or seek direction. In general, MPs were very welcoming.” CDA delegates clarified that the CDCP isn’t free dental care. “We explained that many patients think it’s 100% free. When they find out that it isn’t, they’re upset. And they direct this anger at their dentist,” says Dr. Ward. “But it’s not up to the dentist, it’s how the government plan is structured.” For CDA, correcting those misconceptions is a way to protect the trust between patients and providers, and to help MPs understand why their constituency offices may be hearing complaints about a program many people don’t fully understand yet. On Parliament Hill, we address concerns that affect every Canadian, not just those from one province or territory. 9 Issue 1 | 2026 |
(l to r) Dr. Lesli Hapak, Dr. Jason Noel, MP Maggie Chi, Dr. Bryan Kwak, Irem Turken For the first time, Days on the Hill’s delegation included deans of Canadian dental schools and a newly graduated dentist, Dr. Bryan Kwak, who could speak firsthand to the realities of dental training. Dental Workforce Challenges “One of our main talking points this year was human resources shortages,” Dr. Preston says. “And it’s not unique to dentistry. You see it across the board, among the trades, restaurant workers, everywhere. There is a significant shortage of workers across the country, and dentistry is feeling it too.” The CDA delegation explained that workforce shortages affect the roles that keep dental offices running day to day. “About 50% of dental offices across Canada report some vacancy, particularly in assisting,” Dr. Ward says. He told MPs that the problem isn’t just recruitment— it’s the training and educational pipeline. CDA’s ask of the government was to include certified dental assistants in the postgraduate work permit program and to explore tools like loan forgiveness to strengthen the workforce where it’s needed most. “What we told MPs is that there are enough dentists in Canada to care for the population,” Dr. Ward says. “But there’s a distribution problem. You find concentrations in the big urban areas, while outlying areas have access problems. It would be great to have a way to inspire dentists to move to underserved areas.” Loan forgiveness tied to service was also suggested as a possible solution for dentists. In late December 2025, the federal government made dentists, dental hygienists and other professionals, eligible for Canada Student Loan forgiveness if they work in underserved rural or remote areas. “This is a major win for the oral health of Canadians,” says Dr. Ward. Unintended Consequence of CDCP for Dental Education For the first time, Days on the Hill’s delegation included deans of Canadian dental schools and a newly graduated dentist, Dr. Bryan Kwak, who could speak firsthand to the realities of dental training. “The CDCP was implemented just as my fellow classmates and I entered the clinical portion of our training in third year, at the exact stage when hands-on experience is essential,” says Dr. Kwak. “Declining patient volumes, long preauthorization delays, and frequent denials, all due to the CDCP, made it harder to complete clinical requirements and graduate ready for practice.” Alongside him, Dr. Walter Siqueira, dean of the College of Dentistry at the University of Saskatchewan, and Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis, dean of the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry at the University of Manitoba, explained the broader unintended consequences for dental education: fewer patients are choosing to be treated at teaching clinics now that they can access care elsewhere and a preauthorization process that can derail the procedures students need to complete their education. “One of the outcomes of this year’s Days on the Hill event was building a relationship with the deans,” Dr. Preston says. “They’ve got their own set of issues— funding, CDCP, the preauthorization process. It was educational to learn from them about their part of the oral health landscape.” For Dr. Kwak, the most urgent message to bring to Parliament Hill began with something basic: paperwork. “CDCP preauthorizations had to be sent by mail,” he says. “It took many months to get a response.” In dental school, he explained, treatment plans are built early in the year around procedures such as crowns, partial dentures, and complete dentures, which require CDCP 10 | 2026 | Issue 1 CDA at Work
(l to r) Dr. Walter Siqueira, MP Corey Tochor, Dr. Kirk Preston (l to r) Dr. Stuart MacDonald, MP Peter Fragiskatos, Dr. Marc Mollot, Mishail Bhatia approval before students can begin. “Only about one-quarter of the preauthorizations we sent out were approved,” he says. “By the time you learn it’s declined, the patient is disappointed, and it’s too late.” That delay, Dr. Kwak told MPs, directly affects whether students can become competent clinicians. “Third and fourth year is when we’re actually performing the procedures,” he said. “The four years of dental school are designed to prepare us to go directly into private practice, without a residency like medical doctors.” But with fewer patients coming to teaching clinics and preauthorization denials, students can struggle to meet their clinical requirements. “I saw my classmates anxious about not graduating on time due to delays and denials.” His ask to MPs was specific: “I hope the federal government can provide a solution specifically for dental schools to make sure we can graduate on time and with the skills we need.” Dr. Kwak said being part of the delegation was empowering. “It was an unexpected honour to represent Canadian dental students,” he said. “But I was happy to speak on their behalf so that people know what challenges we face.” Building Relationships “One of the main purposes of Days on the Hill is to create and maintain relationships with officials in Ottawa, regardless of political party,” Dr. Ward says. “At the booth, someone we spoke with last year would come by. We’d re-engage with them and build on their knowledge of the work we do.” Dr. Preston describes the event as the best opportunity to meet MPs and policy makers face-to-face. “The conversations matter because they build trust over time, positioning CDA as a respectful, reliable voice that officials can return to when oral health issues come up again,” he says. With so many groups competing for attention on Parliament Hill, Dr. Hapak says the work that is done between annual events also matters. “Days on the Hill is an effective way to advocate on behalf of the dental profession. We get heard and we can develop many new relationships,” she says. “Beyond Days on the Hill, CDA engages continuously on national programs like the CDCP and promotes policies that improve oral health and access to care.” For Dr. Kwak, the experience was one of discovery. “I hadn’t thought of myself as someone with the capacity for advocacy work, but I’m pleasantly surprised to find that I enjoy it,” he says. “In the future, I’d love to do more of this and contribute to the profession.” 11 Issue 1 | 2026 |
What the Latest Public Opinion Data Tells Us About Oral Health in Canada In recent years, conversations about oral health in Canada have shifted from whether access to care can be improved, to how well new approaches are working in practice. In October 2025, CDA and Abacus Data surveyed more than 3,500 Canadians aged 18 and over to provide a snapshot of this evolving oral health care landscape. The findings indicate evidence that Canadians’ oral health is improving, that patients are satisfied with the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), and that dentists remain among the most trusted health care professionals in the country. However, the data also makes clear that system-wide change is rarely flawless. Although overall experiences are positive, patient misconceptions about CDCP coverage and ongoing preauthorization challenges continue to shape how the CDCP is experienced in dental offices across Canada. Trends 46% of survey respondents rate Canada’s dental care system positively. 65% report having a regular dentist. 58% report going to the dental of ce regularly. 50% reported having a dental visit booked within the upcoming 3−6 months. 46% 58% 65% 50% 12 | 2026 | Issue 1
Preauthorization delays, administrative complexity, and the increased time spent explaining CDCP coverage rules consistently emerge as top operational challenges. Oral Health is Moving in the Right Direction One of the clearest signals from the October 2025 survey is that Canadians’ oral health, and perceptions of oral health care, are improving. Nearly half of respondents (46%) rate Canada’s dental care system positively, and perceptions of quality have improved, year over year. Comfort with visiting the dentist is high, and Canadians are increasingly connected to ongoing care: almost two-thirds (65%) report having a regular dentist. within the next 3 to 6 months, with only 15% saying they will delay care unless absolutely necessary. CDCP: High Patient Satisfaction and Reported Health Benefits From the patients’ perspective, the CDCP is performing well. About 34% of Canadians say they have applied to the CDCP, and 33% report they are enrolled. Among those who have used the program, satisfaction is high. More than three-quarters of CDCP users (76%) rate their experience positively, and satisfaction is even higher when compared directly with the general population’s dental experiences. About the same percentage of users (78%) say the program is meeting their dental care needs, and nearly 90% believe the CDCP will have a meaningful impact on Canada’s dental system overall. Many users report tangible improvements in their oral health since joining the program. Most care delivered through the CDCP has been preventive or routine (e.g., examinations, cleanings, X-rays, and fillings) which are the services most closely associated with improved outcomes over time. Continuity of care has also been largely maintained. The vast majority of CDCP users (85%) say they have been able to continue seeing their current dentist because that dentist participates in the program, underscoring the importance of provider participation in maintaining trusted patient–provider relationships. Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) 76% of survey respondents who are CDCP patients/users rate their program experience positively. 78% say the CDCP program is meeting their dental care needs. 90% believe the CDCP will have a meaningful impact on Canada’s dental system overall. 85% have continued seeing their current dentist, because their dentist participates in the CDCP. 76% 90% 78% 85% Regular access to a dentist is strongly associated with preventive care, early intervention, and improved longterm oral health outcomes. The survey data shows that 58% of Canadians report going to the dental office regularly, and satisfaction with recent dental visits is high. Together, these trends suggest that barriers to care are easing for many, even amid broader affordability pressures. Intent to seek dental care remains strong. Half (50%) of Canadians reported already having dental visits booked 13 Issue 1 | 2026 | CDA at Work
Based on the latest CDA/Abacus Data public opinion research and feedback from dental teams across Canada, several misconceptions about the CDCP persist: z Myth: CDCP provides free dental care. Fact: Patients may have co‑payments as well as additional charges.The CDCP benefit typically does not fully cover what dentists charge. z Myth: All dental services are covered under CDCP. Fact: Not all services are covered under CDCP and some more complex procedures require preauthorization. z Myth: Dentists control coverage decisions. Fact: When CDCP claims are delayed or limited, patients may not realize these decisions sit outside the dental office. Clear, proactive explanations can help reset expectations before treatment begins and reduce frustration for both patients and dental teams. Some Challenges Persist: Expectations and Preauthorization Despite strong overall satisfaction, the survey highlights areas where challenges persist, particularly in patients understanding of the program and administrative processes. A key issue is misconceptions about coverage. Survey data shows that many CDCP users initially believed that dental care under the program would be fully covered, similar to medical services. For some, the first appointment brought unexpected out-of-pocket costs or the realization that certain services are only partially covered by the program. On average, CDCP users who paid out of pocket at their last visit reported spending just over $70. Although many patients are comfortable with balance billing, about 1 in 4 say they have asked not to be charged the difference between CDCP rates and their dentist’s customary fees Preauthorization represents another ongoing challenge. While Health Canada now says most preauthorization decisions are communicated within a week or so, a small share of patients report longer wait times, creating uncertainty for patients and dental teams. Coverage rules are shaping behaviour to some extent: roughly half of CDCP users say they follow their dentist’s recommendations, while a small minority report changing how often they visit the dentist because of the program’s parameters. These findings align with insights from CDA survey research with dentists, where preauthorization delays, administrative complexity, and the increased time spent explaining coverage rules consistently emerge as top operational challenges. Building on What is Working Overall, the October 2025 public opinion data points indicate meaningful progress in Canada’s oral health landscape. Canadians are engaging more consistently with dental care, oral health outcomes are improving, and CDCP users report high satisfaction and perceived health benefits. At the same time, the findings clearly identify opportunities to improve how the program functions in practice, particularly through better public education and more streamlined administrative processes. With continued refinement and collaboration, the foundation is in place to build on early successes and further improve the oral health of Canadians. Patient Misunderstandings About the CDCP The survey was conducted with 3,501 Canadians aged 18 and over from October 3 to 26, 2025. The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 1.65%, 19 times out of 20. 14 | 2026 | Issue 1 CDA at Work
The federal government announced that dentists and dental hygienists are newly eligible for the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness program, as of December 31, 2025. Dentists and dental hygienists working in eligible communities can now apply for forgiveness of the outstanding balance of their federal Canada Student Loan, up to certain maximum dollar amounts. For instance, over a maximum of 5 years, dentists that qualify for the program could receive up to $60,000. This initiative aims to reduce the financial burden of student debt while encouraging dentists and dental hygienists to practise in communities with limited access to oral health services. For the purposes of the loan forgiveness program, an eligible community is defined as a rural area, or a population centre with no more than 30,000 people living in it. The expansion of the program was the result of sustained advocacy efforts by CDA and the PTDAs, which have long Dentists Now Eligible for Canada Student Loan Forgiveness emphasized the need to support oral health professionals serving in rural and remote communities. More details, including full eligibility criteria, are available at: bit.ly/4qSniYJ Health Canada is conducting ongoing Member Eligibility Reviews (MERs) to ensure that individuals enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) continue to meet eligibility requirements, in particular to confirm that they do not have access to other dental insurance. Many CDCP patients will have received a MER letter in December 2025 or January 2026, outlining potential discrepancies and next steps. CDCP patients found ineligible or unable to clarify discrepancies could have their coverage terminated and may be required to repay benefits received while ineligible. It’s important to note that no repayments will be sought from dental providers. Dentists may see an increase in questions from patients due to this MER process. Providers are advised to verify a patient’s CDCP eligibility before each appointment through EDI or the Sun Life portal at: www.sunnet.sunlife.com/signin/ provider/e/home.wca? Health Canada has developed a fact sheet for dentists on the MER process to help address questions from patients. Member Eligibility Review (MER) Process for CDCP Patients See: bit.ly/3Z9YkrR DENTAL DIGEST 15 Issue 1 | 2026 |
Health Canada made changes to the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Dental Benefits Guide in December 2025. Some of these updates reflect CDA and PTDA’s ongoing advocacy with Health Canada to provide clarity and streamline documentation requirements for the preauthorization process. Updates to the guide include: • Scaling: Providers will no longer need to submit a treatment plan or radiographs when requesting additional units of scaling. • Crowns: When requesting a crown, Periodontal Scaling Record (PSR) will be accepted when a full periodontal chart is not available in some cases. Depending on the PSR score, a full chart may be required. • Frequency limits for exams and restorations will no longer take into account which provider or office performs the procedure. • New dentures will not be eligible for coverage within 24 months of a reline or rebase on an existing denture. • Sedation: Radiographs will no longer be required solely to request sedation (exceptions include in cases where Updates to CDCP Dental Benefit Guide radiographs may be a part of the document requirements of the procedure). • Endodontic services: Preauthorization requests should include a rationale explaining why treatment or the specific code is necessary, including any relevant medical considerations that support choosing endodontic treatment over alternatives. Additionally, when requesting endodontic services, PSR will be accepted when a full periodontal chart is not available in some cases. Depending on the PSR score, a full chart may be required. Dentists can review the complete list of changes made by Health Canada at: bit.ly/3OkwIOg In November 2025, CDA finalized a new resource for provincial and territorial dental association (PTDAs) to use as a reference to help inform and guide discussions on continuing operations and how to respond appropriately during a crisis. The Preparedness for Dental Associations resource elaborates on the following topics for associations to consider in relation to preparedness: • Maintaining the functioning of the association • Supporting the association’s membership • Establishing collaborations • Assessing impacts CDA will share this resource with other national associations, including the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association and the Canadian Dental Assistants’ Association. CDA refreshed the branding elements of its workplace mental health course, The Working Mind: Workplace Mental Health & Wellness for Oral Health Care Professionals. Originally launched in October 2023, this course was developed in collaboration with the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC). The course continues to empower dental professionals to prioritize mental wellness while maintaining exceptional patient care. It offers both in-person and virtual delivery, with modules tailored for dental teams and managers. The updated promotional materials and sponsorship details are available on the CDA Oasis website at: oasisdiscussions.ca/the-working-mind Preparedness for Dental Associations Resource Updates to Workplace Mental Health Course 16 | 2026 | Issue 1
The NIHB Program and the Power of Compassionate Dentistry When Dr. Scott Leckie reflects on his decades of practise in Winnipeg, one underlying theme emerges—service. “I’ve always had a strong sense of our profession’s social contract and helping people,” he says. “Oral health is a part of total health, and I’ve always wanted to give back to underserved communities here in Manitoba. I truly believe that everybody deserves the same level of care.” For Dr. Leckie, participating in the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program has been both a professional commitment and a personal mission. “It’s about equity,” he says. “With patients served by the NIHB program, there can be different challenges or barriers initially in accessing care, but I’ve always tried to reduce those barriers.” A Program Transformed Dentists who have been practising in Canada for some time may know that the NIHB program has carried a reputation for having a large administrative burden and slow feedback and communication. Dr. Leckie remembers that well, but notes how far things have come since then. “When I first started in dental practice, it was a bit of a cumbersome program, to be fair,” he recalls. “But today, the new portal system makes it far easier and more convenient. You can check the patient’s eligibility and you can check when their next available date is for treatment in real time. That makes the program a much smoother process.” The new NIHB portal now allows dentists to manage claims, confirm coverage, and streamline patient scheduling without administrative bottlenecks. Removing Barriers, Expanding Care One of the biggest NIHB improvements is the removal of cost limits on restorative work and the elimination of predetermination requirements for some procedures, such as endodontic therapy and prefabricated posts. “These are treatments that we see on a day-to-day basis when treating our patients,” says Dr. Leckie, “And these improvements help increase the care we can provide for the NIHB-eligible population.” One of the biggest NIHB improvements is the removal of cost limits on restorative work and the elimination of predetermination requirements for some procedures. Dr. Scott Leckie 17 Issue 1 | 2026 |
These changes have tangible benefits such as fewer delays, quicker relief from pain, and restored confidence for patients who might otherwise wait months for approvals. Access as Dignity In the northern and rural regions of Manitoba, access to dental care can be geographically and economically challenging. The NIHB program offers coverage for preventive, restorative, prosthodontic and endodontic services, a safety net that ensures that patients can seek care when they need it most. “This program helps by providing coverage for a variety of treatments,” says Dr. Leckie. “By having these treatments subsidized by the federal government, it enables more patients to come to the dentist.” Access is more than just logistics. It’s about dignity, the ability to smile, to eat comfortably and to participate in the community with confidence. “I’ve seen young adults come into my operatory with extensive decay,” he says. “After treatments, there’s a noticeable boost in their self-esteem.” One patient stays with Dr. Leckie vividly. A four-yearold boy who wanted nothing to do with the dental chair. “With a little coaxing and nurturing, we got him into the chair,” he recalls. “We spread his treatment over a couple of months so he wouldn’t be overwhelmed.” When the boy returned later on with his younger brother, things had changed. The once-fearful child now sat proudly beside the chair, holding his sibling’s hand. “I have a great picture of this on my wall as a constant reminder that we can make a difference,” says Dr. Leckie. Dispelling Myths Despite its evolution, misconceptions about the NIHB program still circulate among some Canadian dentists. “The biggest myth is that the NIHB is heavily burdened with paperwork, but that burden has decreased dramatically over my years of practise,” says Dr. Leckie. Many treatments that previously required preapproval (under Schedule B) have been shifted to Schedule A, where they can be performed without administrative delays. These misunderstandings have practical consequences. “There are misconceptions amongst providers about how the program works, and there are also misconceptions among patients on how it works for them,” he says. “By providing a clear understanding of how the program works and the improvements that have been made, we can make it more efficient and convince more dentists to join.” Dr. Leckie draws parallels between the NIHB program and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Although the eligibility criteria differ, both programs share a unifying philosophy of reducing inequities in access to oral health care. “The more participation we can get in NIHB, the greater care we can provide to the underserved,” he says. Equity in oral health cannot be achieved solely through policy. It requires participation from practitioners, dentists that step forward and serve patients covered under programs like NIHB. The Dentist’s Role in Equity Equity in oral health cannot be achieved solely through policy. It requires participation from practitioners, dentists that step forward and serve patients covered under programs like NIHB. For Dr. Leckie, participation is both ethical and practical. “We have to look at the fact that the First Nations and Inuit populations are one of the fastest growing in Canada right now,” he notes. “The more participation we can get, the greater the care that can be provided to the underserved.” “Dentistry, at its best, is about improving health and restoring dignity,” he says. “The NIHB program gives us the opportunity to live that value.” Understanding Indigenous Oral-Health Gaps The oral health disparities facing First Nations and Inuit communities have been well documented. These populations have higher rates of early childhood caries (ECC), untreated decay and limited preventive care compared to non-Indigenous populations. Geographic isolation compounds these challenges, as patients in remote communities often have to travel hundreds of kilometres for treatment. Programs like NIHB serve as a vital bridge, but the bridge is only as strong as the professionals who choose to cross it. Encouraging more dentists, especially younger practitioners, to see NIHB patients could help normalize inclusive care within the broader dental profession. “We need to communicate better with 18 | 2026 | Issue 1 News and Events
our dentists to encourage them to participate in this program,” says Dr. Leckie. “There’s an opportunity to re-educate younger dentists.” What’s Next for NIHB Looking forward, Dr. Leckie has a clear vision for continued progress. “I’d like to see a broader scope of codes being implemented into the NIHB fee grid,” he says. “There are several treatment options that are still not found in the NIHB program but are in most, if not all, of the provincial fee guides. Adding these procedures would elevate the dental care for NIHB populations closer to the non-NIHB programs.” His call for modernization echoes a broader pattern: as dental technology advances and treatment options expand, coverage frameworks must also keep pace to ensure equitable access. But for Dr. Leckie, the future is not just about codes and coverage, it’s about collaboration. “A better collaboration between patients, communities, providers and governments will be crucial in improving access to care in Canada and to the patients we serve.” A Profession Rooted in Humanity In his quiet way, Dr. Leckie embodies a form of dentistry grounded in purpose. The photograph on his clinic wall–of the young boy comforting his sibling–serves as a daily reminder of what compassion in dentistry looks like in practise. “We can make a difference one patient, one family, one community at a time,” he says. As Dr. Leckie’s career demonstrates, when policy meets compassion, transformation follows. The barriers shrink and the smiles return. “The NIHB program gives us the opportunity to embody our professional values. The more participation we can get, the greater the care that can be provided to the underserved,” he concludes. NIHB Fast Facts What is NIHB? The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program provides eligible First Nations and Inuit patients with access to medically necessary health benefits, including dental care, vision care, medical supplies, and prescription drugs. It is funded by the federal government and administered through Indigenous Services Canada. NIHB serves as a critical link in ensuring equitable access to oral care for Indigenous populations, particularly in northern and rural communities where private coverage is limited. Who is Eligible? ¾ Registered First Nations individuals ¾ Recognized Inuit under the federal Inuit Land Claim agreements Dental Services Covered: ¾ Preventive care (e.g., examinations, cleanings, fluoride treatments) ¾ Restorative services (e.g., fillings, crowns) ¾ Endodontic and prosthodontic treatments ¾ Oral surgery and limited orthodontic care Recent NIHB Improvements: ¾ Removal of cost limits for restorative work ¾ Simplified administrative process via online provider portal ¾ Elimination of predetermination for common treatments (e.g., root canals, prefabricated posts) Access the new NIHB Portal at: nihb-ssna.express-scripts.ca/en Hear more from Dr. Leckie on the NIHB Program on CDA Oasis at: bit.ly/4a9humu 19 Issue 1 | 2026 | News and Events
A mid-20th-century orthodontic band selection tray, used to organize metal molar bands by size for the maxillary and mandibular teeth. Dental Clinic in the Diefenbunker Step back in time to the Diefenbunker’s dental clinic—a small but fascinating part of a four‑storey underground reinforced concrete bunker hidden below Carp, Ontario, just outside Ottawa. The Diefenbunker, or the Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Carp as it was officially called, was built between 1959 and 1961, at the height of the Cold War. It was engineered to withstand a five‑megaton nuclear blast from approximately 2 km away and to shelter key political and military personnel during a nuclear crisis. Equipped with a corrugated steel blast tunnel and massive blast doors, air filtration systems, its own utilities and provisions for up to 535 people, it was ready at a moment’s notice to lock down in case of a nuclear attack. The site served continuously as a military communications base until it was decommissioned in 1994. All photos courtesy of the Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum. 20 | 2026 | Issue 1
Midwest was established in 1927, when founder Martin Staunt began by repairing dental handpieces, later expanding into manufacturing and air turbine technology. The dental clinic at the Diefenbunker is part of the health centre located on the top floor of the facility. The health centre’s surgical room had an air compressor that allowed for the use of pneumatic instruments. The facility, described in the 1980 Emergency Preparedness Canada Manual for the Diefenbunker, which was a restricted document for many years, was ready to meet both medical and dental needs in a crisis. It reads, for example, “The Health Centre is located in Room 402A and is equipped with basic medical and dental facilities. Persons requiring special medication must make arrangements to bring a two-week supply.” You can explore the dental office in person—or take a peek online with a virtual tour: diefenbunker.ca/virtual-tour The Department of National Defence planned for only five people to serve on its medical team in the event of a surprise nuclear attack: a medical officer, a nurse and three medical assistants. Today, the Diefenbunker operates as Canada’s Cold War Museum, offering visitors an immersive experience of a tense period in Canada’s history. Most of the objects in the dental clinic aren’t original to the Diefenbunker, but each one was curated to reflect what would have been used at the time. The Diefenbunker’s dental clinic includes a mid-20th-century dental chair and powered instruments. 21 Issue 1 | 2026 | Issues and People
Preserving the Artifacts and Stories of Canada’s Dental Past At the Canadian Museum of Health Care in Kingston, Ontario, a cabinet gleams with artifacts that together help tell the story of 200 years of dental history in Canada and beyond. Most of the artifacts are from the Crawford Dental Collection, named for Dr. Ralph Crawford and his wife Olga. “Ralph and Olga always shared an interest in antiquities,” says Rowena McGowan, the museum’s curator (shown in above photo). “When he became a dentist, that interest focused on dental artifacts. For years, they kept much of the collection on display at his dental office, though they also kept some at their home. There’s a story he told in one of our records about his young son drilling into the fireplace with a dental drill.” Dr. Crawford was very active in organized dentistry, serving as president of the Manitoba and Canadian Dental Associations. He retired from dental practise in 1988 and moved to Ottawa to work as the editor of the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association (JCDA), a position he held for 9 years. In 1997, the Dentistry Canada Fund invited Dr. Crawford and Olga to establish a museum in its building. For more than a decade, the Crawford Dental Collection was on public display in Toronto until the fund dissolved in 2008. In 2010, the Canadian Museum of Health Care took custody of the collection, where it remains one of the most comprehensive representations of dental history in Canada. All photos courtesy of the Canadian Museum of Health Care. 22 | 2026 | Issue 1
Preserving Dental History Matters McGowan believes that historical artifacts are more than curiosities—they reveal the origins of current dental practices and the reasons behind them. “Often the reasons behind why dentists practise dentistry the way they do only become clear when you look back at the circumstances in which those practices developed,” she says. “You can learn a great deal about the choices made today by understanding what was happening when those tools and techniques were first invented.” Equally important, McGowan says, is the sense of perspective history provides. “We don’t always realize how far we’ve come and the struggle and effort that people put into those advances,” she says. “Take anesthesia, for example. Dentists were central to developing both general and local anesthesia—things we now take for granted in pain management. When you understand what came before, you gain a deeper appreciation for the advances we all benefit from today.” For McGowan, learning about dental history also cultivates respect for the ingenuity of earlier generations. “So much of what we rely on today was because of the tireless efforts of the people who came before us,” she says. “When you see how people in the past innovated, struggled and persevered, you develop a new appreciation for the effort it took to get here.” She recalls Dr. Crawford’s own words about what his collection revealed about the dentists of the past. “We were here. We struggled, we innovated, we developed.” Artifacts Tell the Stories Among the Crawford Dental Collection’s most striking artifacts are tooth extraction keys, hooked instruments that gripped a tooth before it was twisted out of the jaw. “Deeply unpleasant, often did a lot of harm to the jaw and to the teeth surrounding the one that was pulled out,” McGowan says. “Yet, compared with physicians of the same period, who lacked antibiotics or germ theory, the extraction could offer effective relief.” As well, the collection includes a dental cast of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker. “It’s always interesting when you have pieces coming from notable people because you can see imperfections and eccentricities you don’t see in a plastic model,” McGowan says. “My parents once asked if I even knew who Diefenbaker was when touring the Diefenbunker museum, and I was able to reply, ‘Yes, we have a cast of his mouth in the collection.’” Dentists were central to developing both general and local anesthesia—things we now take for granted in pain management. White plaster dental casts of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, made in his 70s—his wife Olive joked, “John does not find his strength in the dental chair!” Tooth extraction keys were widely used in Europe and North America in the 1700 and 1800s, before safer forcepsbased techniques became the norm. 23 Issue 1 | 2026 | Issues and People
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