What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program designed to provide dental coverage for Canadian residents without dental benefits and with a household income below $90,000 per year. By reducing financial barriers, the CDCP enables access to a broad range of essential dental services. At Conklin Family Dental, we proudly offer the CDCP to both current and new patients in Brantford and the surrounding areas.
Eligibility
To qualify for the CDCP, you must meet the following criteria:
- No existing dental insurance coverage
- An annual adjusted family net income under $90,000
- Canadian residency for tax purposes
- Filed a tax return for the previous year
- For more details on eligibility, please visit Health Canada.
FAQs
What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program providing dental coverage to Canadian residents who lack dental benefits and have a household income under $90,000 per year. It is important to note that the CDCP is a dental benefit program, not a free dental service. It is designed for those without existing dental coverage and can complement other government programs, but does not replace workplace or private dental benefits. Managed by Health Canada and administered by Sun Life, dentists are not involved in determining eligibility or covered services.
Eligibility
- Who is Eligible? Residents over 65, under 18, and adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit are currently eligible. All other residents will be eligible in 2025.
- How to Check Eligibility: Visit Health Canada’s website or call their helpline at 1-833-537-4342, available Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. local time.
Applying to the CDCP
Applications for the CDCP are submitted through Health Canada. Within three months of your application, Sun Life will send a welcome package containing your coverage details, effective date, and membership card.
What Does the CDCP Cover?
The CDCP covers a portion of dental care costs, but it is not a free service. Out-of-pocket expenses may vary based on income:
- No co-payment for households with an adjusted net income under $70,000
- 40% co-payment for incomes between $70,000 and $79,999
- 60% co-payment for incomes between $80,000 and $89,999
Services Covered by the CDCP
The CDCP covers a broad range of services, including:
- Preventive care (scaling, sealants, fluoride)
- Diagnostic services (exams, X-rays)
- Restorative treatments (fillings)
- Endodontics (root canals)
- Prosthodontics (complete and partial dentures)
- Periodontal care (deep scaling)
- Oral surgery (extractions)
Some treatments may require preauthorization based on your oral health provider’s recommendation and health history.
Combining CDCP with Other Government Plans
If you have other government coverage like Healthy Smiles, OW, or ODSP, benefits will be coordinated, with the CDCP serving as the primary payer relative to Ontario dental programs.
Discuss Treatment Costs
When scheduling your appointment, discuss treatment costs with your dentist, as some expenses may not be covered under the CDCP.