Effective Tuesday, October 3, 2023 the Provincial Government has increased the denture budget and maximum payable amounts for dentures under the Adult Dental Program.

The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of good oral health for an individual’s self-esteem and overall health and well-being. The increase in the Adult Denture Program will cover:

• An annual 20 per cent increase in the dentures budget (from $700,000 to $840,000);
• An increase in the maximum payable amount from $750 to $900 per standard denture;
• An increase in the maximum payable amount from $503 to $600 for partial dentures; and
• A maximum annual cap increase from $1,500 to $1,800.

The last change to fees occurred in 2015, and since then there have been significant cost increases for providing dentures with no reciprocal increase. The Denturists Association of Newfoundland and Labrador requested an increase in the denture budget to allow for an increase of maximum payable amount for dentures.

Only individuals that are income support recipients from ages 19-65 are eligible for denture coverage under the Adult Denture Program. Dental service providers who participate in the Adult Denture Program bill government directly, eliminating upfront costs for those who are financially vulnerable.

The Adult Denture Program was first implemented in January 2012. It provides coverage for basic dental services and denture services for adults covered under the Foundation Plan for the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Plan.

Quotes
“An increase in the overall dental budget and fees paid to denturists guarantees effective health care delivery while ensuring denture access to a vulnerable population. The Adult Dental Program reduces oral health disparities for vulnerable populations and increases access to dental care, resulting in positive oral health outcomes.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“I am pleased to hear that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is enhancing the Adult Dental Program by increasing the rates payable for dentures. We are always happy to continue to collaborate with the government to improve access to care for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Dr. Shane Roberts
President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on X (Twitter) @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook