Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program aimed at improving access to dental care for Canadians in need. It specifically targets individuals and families who do not have private dental insurance and whose adjusted family net income is under $90,000. The initiative covers a range of essential dental services, including preventive, diagnostic, and restorative care, while excluding cosmetic procedures. By addressing these gaps, the CDCP ensures that more Canadians can maintain their oral health without financial strain. This program is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance healthcare equity across the country.
How It Works
Application Process: Eligible individuals can apply through the Government of Canada’s online portal or via phone. Upon approval, applicants receive a membership card and details about their coverage start date.
Service Access: Once enrolled, beneficiaries can receive dental services from participating oral health providers who bill the CDCP directly, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses. It’s advisable to confirm with your dental provider whether they participate in the CDCP before scheduling an appointment.
Service Access: Once enrolled, beneficiaries can receive dental services from participating oral health providers who bill the CDCP directly, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses. It’s advisable to confirm with your dental provider whether they participate in the CDCP before scheduling an appointment.
Covered Services: The CDCP covers a comprehensive range of dental services, including:
- Preventive Services: Examinations, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants.
- Diagnostic Services: X-rays and other necessary evaluations.
- Restorative Services: Fillings and crowns.
- Endodontic Services: Root canal treatments.
- Prosthodontic Services: Complete and partial dentures.
- Periodontal Services: Deep scaling and gum treatments.
- Oral Surgery: Extractions and other surgical procedures.
- Anesthesia or Sedation Services: To manage pain during dental procedures.
Some services, especially those beyond established frequency limits, require preauthorization by the CDCP. This means your provider will recommend services, and the CDCP will confirm whether they will be covered by the plan. Orthodontic services are expected to be added in 2025 and will be covered in cases of medical need based on strict criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CDCP, applicants must meet all the following requirements:
No Access to Dental Insurance: Applicants should not have access to any dental insurance through employment, family members, professional or student organizations, or private purchase. This includes situations where individuals choose not to take available insurance or have to pay premiums for it.
Adjusted Family Net Income Below $90,000: The plan is income-tested, targeting families with an adjusted net income under $90,000. Specific co-payment structures apply based on income brackets:
- Below $70,000: 100% of eligible service costs covered.
- $70,000 to $79,999: 60% coverage; 40% co-payment required.
- $80,000 to $89,999: 40% coverage; 60% co-payment required.
Canadian Resident for Tax Purposes: Applicants must be residents of Canada for tax purposes.
Filed Tax Returns: Both the applicant and their spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) must have filed their tax returns for the previous year to assess family income.
It’s important to note that individuals with dental coverage through provincial, territorial, or federal government social programs can still qualify for the CDCP. In such cases, coverage will be coordinated between the plans to ensure there are no duplications or gaps in coverage.
By meeting these criteria, eligible Canadians can access essential dental care services, promoting better oral health across the country.