Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
The Canadian government has launched a new government-funded dental insurance program to improve access to affordable dental health care and good oral health care worldwide. This is the Canadian dental care plan. It provides comprehensive dental coverage to eligible Canadians with a focus on preventive care, restorative procedures, and emergency services.
What is CDPC?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federally funded initiative designed to make dental care more accessible and affordable for millions of Canadians who don’t have private insurance. Introduced in December 2023, the initial rollout was focused more on people who were 70 years of age or older.
With some regulatory changes as of 1 May 2024, the applications were open to seniors aged 65 and older.
As early as June 22, 2024, the applications opened for adults with a disability tax certificate and children under 18.
The Canadian dental care plan covers preventive and diagnostic services like checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants. In addition, it also covers various exams and X-rays to identify the problems early. Elderly citizens can also expect prosthodontic and periodontal services, along with some limited orthodontic services as well.
How do I apply for my CDPC
The applications began in 2023 and will continue till 2025.
If you are 65 or older, half of the job is done. You will be receiving a letter that contains the instructions and an application code. You can apply via your phone by following the instructions provided in the letter.
The Canadian dental care plan targets Canadian residents with an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000 who lack access to dental insurance.
Frequently AskedQuestions
1. What is the Canadian
Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The CDCP is a federally funded initiative designed to
provide essential dental services to eligible Canadian residents who do not have access to
dental insurance. It aims to reduce financial barriers and improve oral health across the
country.
2. Who is eligible for the
CDCP?
Eligibility is based on several criteria: applicants must be Canadian
residents for tax purposes, have filed a tax return in the previous year, have an adjusted family
net income under $90,000, and must not have access to any form of dental insurance, including
employer-sponsored or private plans.
3. What dental services are
covered under the
CDCP?
diagnostic services (like X-rays), restorative treatments (fillings and crowns), oral surgeries
(extractions), and periodontal care. Some services may require preauthorization, especially starting
in late 2024 and beyond.
4. How much of the dental
costs does the CDCP
cover?
Coverage depends on adjusted family net income. Those earning under
$70,000 may receive full coverage (100 percent of CDCP-established fees). For incomes between
$70,000 and $89,999, coverage ranges from 40 to 60 percent, with the remainder paid by the patient
as a co-payment.
5. How can someone apply
for the CDCP?
Applications are submitted online through the CDCP portal. The rollout
is phased: seniors, children under 18, and adults with disabilities were prioritized in earlier
phases. As of May 2025, all eligible Canadians aged 18 to 64 without dental insurance can apply,
with coverage beginning as early as June 1, 2025.