Understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP): Who Qualifies and What’s Covered?

Over one million Canadians have a reason to smile thanks to the Canadian Dental Care Plan, or CDCP. Even more will join them as eligibility expands across age and income levels. You may already qualify - it's just a matter of becoming acquainted with the program. Look no further than this guide to understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan for help. In it, we answer common questions asked about the CDCP, from why it exists to who it supports to the types of dental treatment it covers, and more.

What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a government dental coverage program for Canadians who don't have access to private insurance. The initiative helps pay for the cost of a range of essential dental services, from routine check-ups to more complex procedures.

A Brief History of the CDCP

The Canadian Dental Care Plan marks a major step forward in this country's healthcare system. While Canada has had universal coverage for essential medical procedures and doctor's visits since the 1980s, people were still expected to front the costs of dental work on their own before the CDCP. For those without insurance, that meant hundreds if not thousands of dollars out of pocket every year.

Advocates finally got their wish in 2022 when Parliament passed legislation to create a national dental care program. The CDCP was first proposed in 2021 as part of a broader healthcare reform package and officially launched in 2023 after months of debate and consultation with dental associations, provincial health authorities, and public advocacy groups. Roll-out was designed to be implemented in phases, starting with vulnerable populations such as seniors, children under 18, and those with disabilities.

Who Qualifies for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

While the Canadian Dental Care Plan is broadly intended to bolster regular dental care in Canada by making trips to the dentist more affordable, not everyone benefits equally. Legislators saw a need to prioritize funding for low-income individuals and families who would otherwise spend more of their annual income on care over higher earning households who can more easily afford it. Benefits are apportioned in tiers, with a greater percentage of expenses covered the less one earns.

See a breakdown of the current brackets based on adjusted family net income below.

Under $70,000 a year: 100% of eligible costs covered by CDCP

$70,000 to $79,999 a year: 60% of eligible costs covered by CDCP

$80,000 to $89,999 a year: 40% of eligible costs covered by CDCP

Program participants pay for any remaining dental care costs out of pocket.

What's Covered Under the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

It's important to recognize that the Canadian Dental Care Plan doesn't cover every treatment out there. Even some subsidized services require pre-approval, a process should begin well in advance of any actual dentist appointment. Sun Life and Health Canada, the co-administrators of the CDCP, ultimately determine which procedures qualify.

Generally speaking, you can expect some degree of support for the following.

Preventive Services:

• Regular check-ups and cleanings (typically covered twice per year)
• Dental X-rays
• Fluoride treatments
• Dental sealants

Basic Treatments:

• Fillings for cavities
• Tooth extractions
• Root canal therapy
• Treatment for gum disease

Major Procedures (may require pre-approval):

• Crowns and bridges
• Partial dentures
• Complete dentures
• Oral surgery for impacted teeth

What's Not Covered:

• Cosmetic procedures (teeth whitening, veneers)
• Orthodontic work (braces, aligners) except in cases of medical necessity
• Dental implants (except in specific circumstances)
• Treatments performed solely for aesthetic purposes

Coverage limits apply to many procedures, with annual maximums that reset each calendar year. Patients should consult with their dental provider about specific treatment costs and coverage limitations before proceeding with extensive work.

Go from Understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan to Using It

Ready to go from understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan to actually benefiting from it? Our local clinic is the perfect place to start. The team at ABN Family Dental has spent months studying up on this complex new program, who it covers, and how it works. We've trained our staff to handle all the paperwork and verification processes so you don't have to. Our administrative team can help determine your CDCP eligibility tier, explain which treatments are covered at your income level, and assist with the application process if you haven't already enrolled.

Dental care can be intimidating – both for your teeth and your wallet. But it doesn't have to be. Call our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how the Canadian Dental Care Plan can work for you and your family.