The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program designed to make routine dental care more accessible for Canadians who don’t have private dental coverage. Introduced in December 2023, the program has continued expanding through 2024 and 2025, with applications now open to all eligible Canadians.
For many Canadians, the CDCP can help reduce the cost of services like cleanings, exams, X-rays, and fillings. However, it doesn’t fully cover all procedures, and you may still need to pay a portion of your dental fees depending on your income and treatment plan.
This is an evolving plan, and updates continue to be made as the federal government works with provinces and dental care providers across Canada. Understanding what the CDCP covers, and what it doesn’t, is key to planning your care and avoiding surprises.
Who Qualifies for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
As of July 2025, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is open to all eligible Canadian residents aged 18 and older. The program was introduced in stages beginning in 2023 and is now available nationwide to support those without access to private dental insurance.
To qualify, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- You do not have access to dental insurance, including through work, a pension plan, a family member, or private purchase
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- You filed a tax return in the previous year
- Your adjusted family net income is under $90,000
Eligibility is verified during the application process using the information you’ve submitted to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
How Much of Your Dental Care Will Be Covered?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan helps reduce the cost of eligible dental services, but it doesn’t fully cover every expense. The amount covered depends on your adjusted family net income, the type of service you receive, and whether your dentist’s fees align with the CDCP reimbursement rates.
Patients may still be responsible for part of the cost if:
- The service isn’t included in the CDCP
- Your dentist charges more than what the plan allows
- Your income places you in a lower reimbursement tier
This means that, even with CDCP coverage, some out-of-pocket costs are likely. Knowing what to expect can help you plan your care with more confidence and fewer surprises.
What Services Are Covered?
The CDCP includes a range of basic preventive, diagnostic, restorative, and sedation services. Some of the services they cover are:
- Cleanings, including scaling, polishing, and fluoride
- Dental exams and X-rays
- Sealants
- Gum disease management
- Fixing damaged crowns
- Fillings
- Root canal treatments
- Tooth extractions
- Complete or partial removable dentures
- Deep scaling in eligible cases
Some services may require preauthorization before they can be provided under the plan. As the program evolves, the types of services covered and how they are administered may change.
Applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), the next step is to apply through the federal government. The application process is managed by Service Canada and is available online, by phone, or by mail.
If you meet all eligibility criteria and your application is approved, Service Canada will forward your information to Sun Life, the official administrator of the plan. From there, Sun Life will enroll you in the CDCP and send you a welcome package. This package includes your coverage start date, a member card, and details on what services are included under your plan.
Once you’re enrolled, you’ll be able to begin booking appointments, but only as of your official coverage start date. The CDCP will not reimburse services received before the date listed in your welcome letter.
CDCP Renewal Requirements
If you’re already enrolled in the CDCP, it’s important to note that coverage isn’t indefinite. Starting in March 2025, all existing participants were required to renew their coverage by June 1, 2025 to avoid a lapse in benefits. If your renewal wasn’t completed in time, coverage ended as of June 30, 2025.
Maintaining up-to-date information with the program is essential to continue receiving benefits under the CDCP.
Navigating Your Dental Care
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a positive step toward improving access to dental care for eligible Canadians, but it isn’t a replacement for private insurance or comprehensive coverage. The level of support you receive depends on your income, treatment needs, and the plan’s coverage limits.
At Elevate Dental, we’ve developed a supportive and transparent process to help you make the most of your CDCP coverage. Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking to understand your current benefits, our team is here to help you navigate what’s covered and what to expect at each stage of your care. Have questions about the CDCP or your eligibility? Get in touch with us today. We’re here to help you elevate your smile, stay informed, and feel confident about your oral health.
