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The Canadian Dental Care Plan Program: What You Need to Know

PolicyMe Editorial Team

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Dental care can be costly, but it shouldn’t be out of reach—and thanks to The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)—for many Canadians, it no longer is. But who’s eligible and what’s covered? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the CDCP and share some helpful tips on accessing affordable dental care for those who may not meet the eligibility requirements.

Key Takeaways

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program offering fully and partially subsidized dental care for uninsured, low-income Canadians.
The plan covers basics—like checkups, cleanings, and fillings—helping Canadians take care of their dental needs without sacrificing their budget.
Not eligible? Affordable insurance options, like those from PolicyMe, make maintaining your dental health budget-friendly.

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

While Canadians are fortunate to have many healthcare costs covered by provincial and federal healthcare plans, dental expenses are often left out of the equation. To cover these costs, most Canadians need additional insurance, which can either be provided by their employer or purchased privately by individuals or families.

Unfortunately, not all Canadians can afford additional coverage. Only 48% of Canadians with family incomes under $70,000 have dental insurance, and those without it are three times more likely to avoid seeing a dentist because of the cost.

But, skipping the dentist harms more than just your smile. Left untreated, dental issues can lead to serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes—making access to dental services crucial for your overall health.

Recognizing the importance of maintaining good oral health, the Canadian government launched the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2023—a first-of-its-kind federal program designed to break down the financial barriers that prevent Canadians from accessing necessary dental care.

Specifically targeted at uninsured, low-income families, the CDCP offers fully or heavily subsidized dental services for Canadians who would otherwise struggle to afford basic dental treatments. By making dental care more affordable, the CDCP aims to improve the overall health and well-being of Canadians, reduce preventable dental diseases, and ensure that no one has to forgo treatment due to cost.

Who Qualifies for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

With full implementation set for 2025, now is a great time to see if you qualify. Eligibility depends on factors like adjusted family net income, age, family composition, and current insurance coverage. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Income Level: Hoping for 100% dental coverage? It’s not quite that simple. Coverage is based on household income, so even qualifying families may need to contribute. Here’s how it works:

Under $70,000: If your household income is under $70,000, the CDCP will cover 100% of your eligible dental services—no co-payment needed.
$70,000 and $79,999: Within this income range, the plan provides 60% coverage for eligible oral health care costs, meaning you’ll need to cover the remaining 40%.
$80,000 and $89,999: Households earning between $80,000 and $89,999 will receive 40% coverage for eligible health care costs, leaving you responsible for 60% of the costs.

Age and Family Composition: The CDCP has rolled out in phases to prioritize those most in need. Here’s a look at the groups already covered:

Seniors: Canadians aged 65 and older were among the first groups eligible for the program, as many seniors face challenges accessing dental care without insurance.
Children: Families with children under 18 are also prioritized, helping young Canadians kickstart their oral health.
Adults with Disabilities: Canadians with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate are also included, giving them access to essential dental care.
All Remaining Eligible Canadian Residents: Starting in 2025, the CDCP will expand to cover remaining eligible Canadian residents.
Existing Coverage: Meet all of the requirements above, but have existing dental coverage? Right now, you won’t qualify for the program, as it’s focused on helping those without it.

While these are the current guidelines, eligibility requirements may change. Keep an eye on government updates to stay informed about your options. Not eligible for the CDCP? Get comprehensive dental insurance from PolicyMe - in 5 minutes or less!

How to Apply for the CDCP

Checked all the eligibility boxes? Great—now what? The Canadian Dental Care Plan application process is simple. Here’s how it works:

Check Your Eligibility: Double-check your eligibility on the government website or consult a certified advisor to ensure you qualify.
Gather Your Documentation: To apply, you’ll need a few things, like proof of income and identification. Having these on hand will make the application process smoother.
Submit Your Application: Most applications can be completed online through the CDCP portal—but some provinces may have specific steps, so make sure you follow the correct process for your location.
Await Processing and Approval: Applying doesn’t mean you’re immediately covered. Your CDCP welcome package—which can take up to three months to arrive—includes essential details like your coverage card and start date. Hold off on booking appointments until it arrives to ensure you’re fully covered.
Stay on Top of Annual Reapplications: To keep your coverage active, most Canadians need to reapply every year. This simple step helps the plan continue serving those who need it most.

What Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan Cover?

Curious about what the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers? Here’s a closer look at the services included:

Routine Checkups and Exams: Regular dental visits help catch potential issues early, preventing them from developing into larger (more expensive) problems down the line.
Preventive Services: When it comes to pain-free dental care, the best offense is a solid defense. Preventive treatments like cleanings, fluoride applications, and sealants keep your teeth and gums healthy—and help you avoid painful complications like cavities and root canals.
Restorative Care: Need a filling? The CDCP has you covered for basic restorative work, including permanent and temporary fillings.
Endodontic and Periodontal Services: The CDCP also helps with complex issues like root canals and gum disease treatments, so you don’t have to choose between your budget and health.
Extractions: If a tooth can’t be saved, the CDCP covers non-surgical extractions too.
Major Services Coming in 2025: Starting next year, medically necessary orthodontic services will be added to the plan. But, there’s a spending cap, so check your coverage details before starting treatment.

Take Note: Some services require preauthorization, meaning your dentist has to recommend them before the CDCP gives the green light on coverage. Reauthorization requirements may vary by province, so check the CDCP for details in your area.

What If You Aren’t Eligible for the CDCP?

Not eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)? There are still plenty of ways to keep dental care affordable for you and your family. Many Canadians without employer-provided benefits turn to private dental plans (like those offered by PolicyMe) to manage costs.

With plans starting as low as $20 a month, PolicyMe offers affordable and accessible dental insurance for Canadians. Need comprehensive coverage? Our most comprehensive options also cover everything from routine dental exams and cleanings to advanced treatments, like root canals, major restorative surgeries—and yes, even braces.

Even if you don’t qualify for the CDCP, if you’ve been putting off dental coverage, now’s the time to get the care you need. Will your dental visit be the highlight of your week? Probably not. But it’s part of taking care of your overall health—and you and your family deserve to feel your best.

At a Glance: Canadian Dental Benefits Guide

Eligibility Insights: The Canadian Dental Care Plan provides essential support for uninsured, low-income families and seniors.
Options for Non-Eligible Canadians: Not eligible? Private plans like PolicyMe offer affordable coverage to keep dental costs manageable.
On the Cusp of Eligibility? Guidelines may shift, so stay tuned for CDCP updates—especially around election time.

FAQs: Canadian Dental Care Plan Guide

Can I get free dental care in Canada?

The short answer is, it depends. The CDCP is designed to make dental care more affordable, with varying support levels based on household income. For families earning under $70,000, the plan provides 100% coverage for eligible dental services, meaning no out-of-pocket costs. But families earning between $70,000 and $89,999 will only receive partial coverage, so you’ll have to chip in a bit to cover the rest.

What is the income limit for dental benefits in Canada?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) provides dental benefits based on income eligibility. To qualify, your adjusted family net income must be less than $90,000. This means that after deductions and adjustments, your family's total income should not exceed this threshold.

The plan is designed to ensure that dental care is accessible to those who may struggle with the costs associated with maintaining oral health. If your family's income is below $90,000, you can apply for benefits under the CDCP, which can help cover a range of dental services, ensuring that everyone has access to essential dental care.

How do I find a CDCP dental health care provider?

To find a CDCP dental health care provider, start by visiting the CDCP website, which lists participating providers. Many dental clinics also indicate on their websites or at their offices if they offer CDCP services.

For a more localized search, you can reach out to your provincial health authority directly; they can provide a list of CDCP-approved dentists in your area and answer any specific questions you might have. Additionally, consider asking for recommendations from friends or family members who have utilized CDCP services, as they can provide firsthand insights and suggestions.

Do you need to reapply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan annually?

Yes, Canadians generally need to reapply each year for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). This annual reapplication process is essential to confirm ongoing eligibility and to adjust for any changes in income or family status that may have occurred over the past year. By reassessing applicants annually, the CDCP ensures that the program's benefits remain targeted toward those who need them the most. This approach helps maintain the integrity of the program, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to support the dental health of eligible Canadians.