Children seeking dental coverage through Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision are now required to be enrolled in the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Temporary exemptions may be available for some appointments scheduled from October 1 to December 31, 2026.
The Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program helps eligible children in low-income New Brunswick families access dental and vision care. The program now works alongside the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), and children seeking dental coverage through Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision should be enrolled in the CDCP to qualify for full coverage.
What Dental Services Does the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Program Cover?
The program provides coverage for specified basic dental services, including:
- Routine dental examinations
- Dental X-rays
- Extractions
- Preventive treatments, including fluoride applications
- Dental sealants
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for full coverage under the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Program, families must:
- Live in New Brunswick
- Have one or more dependent children aged 18 or younger
- Have their dependent child or children enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
- Not have other dental and vision coverage through another government program or private insurance plan
- Meet the program income requirements based on family size and the previous year’s New Brunswick Income Tax Return or Notice of Assessment
Current income thresholds published by the program are:
| Family size | Maximum net family income |
|---|---|
| 2 people | $35,683 |
| 3 people | $43,702 |
| 4 people | $50,463 |
| 5 people | $56,419 |
| 6 people | $61,804 |
| 7 people | $66,756 |
| 8 people | $71,365 |
How the Program Works with the CDCP
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program that helps make dental care more affordable for eligible Canadians. Children seeking dental coverage through Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision must be enrolled in the CDCP to qualify for full coverage under the provincial program.
Families who may be eligible should apply for CDCP coverage and then complete the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision application process. For information about CDCP eligibility or to apply, visit the Government of Canada website, call 1-833-537-4342, or visit a Service Canada Centre.
Temporary Exemptions During the CDCP Transition
Temporary exemptions may be available for some upcoming appointments.
If your child has a dental appointment scheduled between October 1 and December 31, 2026, and does not yet have CDCP coverage, contact your Social Development worker. You may qualify for a temporary exemption while these changes are being introduced.
Temporary exemptions will not be available after December 31, 2026.
All coverage beyond December 31, 2026, must meet CDCP exemption criteria to qualify.
How to Apply
- Review the CDCP eligibility requirements and apply for federal coverage.
- Complete the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision application form.
- Submit the completed form with the required supporting documents.
- Wait for the application to be assessed. Applicants will be notified once a decision has been made.
If a child is approved for coverage, a Medavie Blue Cross card will be issued in the child’s name. Parents or guardians should present the card to the dental provider at each appointment.
Children who already receive dental and vision coverage through the Department of Social Development will have their coverage automatically transferred to Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision. Social Development clients do not need to submit a separate application.
Key Program Details
Families must reapply each year. Submit the renewal application and required income information by September 1st.
Confirm that your provider participates. Before receiving care, ask whether the dental provider offers services under Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision.
Report changes in circumstances. If your situation changes during the year, submit a new application and identify it as a change request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to apply for the CDCP before applying for Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision?
Children seeking dental coverage through Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision must be enrolled in the CDCP to qualify for full coverage. Families should review the CDCP eligibility requirements and apply for federal coverage as part of the process.
What if my child has an appointment but is not yet covered by the CDCP?
For appointments scheduled between October 1 and December 31, 2026, contact your Social Development worker. A temporary exemption may be available while the new requirements are being introduced. Temporary exemptions will not be available after December 31, 2026.
What happens if my family’s circumstances change?
Submit a new application and indicate that it is a change request.
What happens if I miss the annual renewal deadline?
Your child’s benefits may end after the deadline and resume only after you reapply and are approved. The program is not responsible for costs incurred between the deadline and re-enrolment.
How do I access services under the program?
When booking an appointment, confirm that the dental provider participates in the program. At the appointment, tell the office that your child is covered and present the Sun Life CDCP card and Medavie Blue Cross card.
Helping Children Access Essential Care
Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision continues to provide important dental and vision benefits for eligible New Brunswick children. With the new CDCP enrollment requirement, families should review their eligibility, apply for federal coverage where required, and allow time to complete both application processes before an upcoming appointment.
References
- Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Program
- Social Development Dental Benefits Guide
- Canadian Dental Care Plan - Apply
*This article is intended for informational purposes only. Program eligibility, coverage and application requirements may change. Consult the official program resources or contact the appropriate government office for information about your circumstances.
