Canadian Dental Care Plan in Alberta: Why Many Haven’t Booked and How Bow River Dental Centre Cochrane Can Help

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program designed to make dental care more accessible for Canadians who may not have had coverage in the past. Across Alberta, the number of eligible residents has grown significantly, from under 190,000 last year (2024) to more than 300,000 this year (2025). Yet government data shows that only a small percentage have actually booked and received care so far.

At Bow River Dental Centre Cochrane, we understand that navigating new programs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we want to help our community understand what the CDCP is, what the numbers mean for Alberta, and how local families can make the most of this opportunity to protect their oral health.

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The Numbers in Alberta: Eligibility vs. Visits

The Canadian Dental Care Plan is growing quickly across the country, and Alberta is no exception. Government statistics show just how much has changed in only a year. In the 2024–2025 benefit year, about 188,826 Albertans were approved for the program, and more than 101,000 of those people visited a dentist. That means just over half of those who were eligible actually used their coverage.

Fast forward to the current 2025–2026 benefit year, and the numbers look very different, though it’s still early in the coverage period. More than 306,000 Albertans have now been approved, yet as of late-summer only around 48,500 had booked and received care. In other words, while eligibility has increased by over 60%, only about 16% of those approved have actually seen a dentist so far.

For families here in Cochrane, this means thousands of people now have access to dental care through the Canadian Dental Care Plan but haven’t taken the step of booking an appointment. At Bow River Dental Centre Cochrane, we see this as both a challenge and an opportunity: a challenge because too many people may be waiting to get important care, and an opportunity because coverage is there for the taking if you are ready to use it.

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Why Are So Many Waiting to Use Their Benefits?

Even though more than 300,000 Albertans are now approved for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, only a fraction have booked their first appointment. Part of this comes down to timing, the 2025–2026 benefit year is still in its early months, and many families may simply not have gotten around to scheduling yet. But there are other reasons as well.

For some, the process feels confusing. Patients aren’t always sure which dental clinics accept the plan or how billing works. Others may assume their coverage starts automatically without realizing they need to bring their coverage card to their first visit. And for many families, life gets busy, meaning dental care can easily slip down the priority list.

At Bow River Dental Centre Cochrane, we’ve seen how small delays can lead to bigger dental problems down the road. Regular checkups help catch issues early, keeping care simple, affordable, and stress-free. That’s why it’s so important for Cochrane residents who qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan to take advantage of their benefits now, rather than wait.

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What This Means for Cochrane Residents

For our community here in Cochrane, these numbers matter. Thousands of local families are now eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, but many have not yet taken advantage of their benefits. That means dental coverage is sitting unused, even though it can make a real difference in protecting oral health and avoiding bigger issues down the road.

At Bow River Dental Centre Cochrane, we see the impact of regular checkups every day. A simple cleaning or exam can help prevent cavities, gum disease, or more complex treatments in the future. With the CDCP, many of these important services are covered, making it easier than ever for Cochrane residents to prioritize their dental health.

The reality is that early use of the Canadian Dental Care Plan benefits both patients and families: it reduces long-term costs, ensures access to preventive care, and helps children and adults alike stay on track with their oral health. For those who qualify, the next step is simply making that first appointment.

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How to Book and Make the Most of Your CDCP Coverage

If you or your family members are approved for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, the next step is simple: book your appointment and start using the benefits available to you. At Bow River Dental Centre Cochrane, we make the process straightforward. Just bring along your CDCP approval information, and our team will handle the rest.

Your coverage can be applied toward preventive visits, exams, cleanings, and other important services that keep your smile healthy. Using your benefits early helps you stay ahead of dental problems and ensures you get the full value of the program.

Booking is easy, you can call our office (403-932-9889), request an appointment online, or stop by in person. We treat every patient like family, and we’re here to make sure your experience with the Canadian Dental Care Plan is smooth, stress-free, and positive.

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