Canadian Dental Care Plan

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a government initiative aimed at providing dental benefits to Canadians who do not have access to dental insurance and whose household incomes fall below $90,000. This plan addresses the significant barrier to dental care faced by many Canadians due to financial constraints.

However, it’s crucial to understand that the CDCP is not a free dental care program but rather a benefit that covers a portion of dental costs.

Eligibility Criteria

The CDCP specifically targets certain groups to ensure those in need receive the assistance they require. The main eligibility criteria include:

Seniors (65 and older)

Many seniors may lose dental benefits upon retirement, making this provision crucial.

Adults with Disabilities

Those with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate are eligible, recognizing the added financial burdens they may face.

Children (under 18)

Ensuring that young Canadians have access to dental care regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Eligible individuals must meet these criteria and have a household income below $90,000 to qualify for the benefits under the CDCP.

You may not be covered if you

One of the most important aspects to understand about the CDCP is the extent of its coverage:

Already have dental insurance

If you have dental insurance or a health benefits plan even if you decide not to use it.

Household income over $90,000

You are not eligible if your adjusted net family income is over $90,000 / year.

General anesthesia may not be covered

If the government does not pre-authorize your anesthesia, it may not be covered.

Your taxes aren't up-to-date

If you haven't filed a tax return in the last year, or are not a Canadian citizen, you will not be covered.

The CDCP has built-in co-payments based on family income so you will always have a balance to pay.

The CDCP does not cover the entirety of dental services

How much may be covered?

Family income less than $70,000 per year

up to 50% co-payment

Family income between $70,000 & $79,999

up to 40% co-payment

Family income between $80,000 & $89,999

up to 30% co-payment

What you'll pay

CDCP does not cover the entire cost of your services. The coverage is based on a sliding scale tied to household income.

CDCP & Private Insurance

While the CDCP offers essential coverage, it’s not intended to replace private dental insurance. There are several key differences:

Coverage Flexibility

Private insurance plans often provide more comprehensive and flexible coverage options.

Cost

Depending on the plan, private insurance might have lower out-of-pocket costs for certain services compared to the CDCP.

Accessibility

Private insurance typically allows for a wider range of participating dentists.

Required Information

Submit one application for everyone who qualifies to prevent delays.

Social insurance number
Notice of assessments for last year *both you and your spouse / common law)
Date of birth
Full name
Home & mailing address
List of dental coverage

Is General Anesthesia Covered?

Some general anesthesia costs may be covered by the CDCP if it is pre-authorized from the government before approval

How to Apply

To apply for the CDCP, you will need to gather several pieces of information. Below is a comprehensive list of the required information and instructions on how to apply.