Bridging the Gap: Canada’s New Dental Care Plan Aims to Bring Smiles to Millions
- Small Town Productions
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
June 13th, 2025
Canada's Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is now in full swing, offering federally funded dental coverage to qualifying Canadians who’ve long gone without. Designed to support those without private insurance and with modest incomes, the CDCP is helping individuals and families finally access the dental care they need without facing financial hardship.
What is the CDCP?
The CDCP is a public dental insurance plan created by the federal government to help reduce the cost of essential dental services for Canadians who meet specific criteria.
The plan covers routine and preventative dental services, along with some restorative procedures, and is administered by Sun Life on behalf of the federal government.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the CDCP, you must:
Be a Canadian tax resident
Have no private dental insurance (including through an employer, school, or family member)
Have an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000 per year
Have filed a tax return for the previous year
If you qualify, you can now apply through Service Canada and receive a welcome kit with your CDCP card.
Rollout Status as of June 2025
Applications are now open for all eligible age groups:
Seniors aged 65 and older
Children under 18
Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate
Adults aged 18–64
Application stages for all adult age groups began in May 2025 and are now open as a whole.
If you meet the criteria and haven’t applied yet, now is the time.
What Services Are Covered?
The CDCP covers a wide range of essential dental services, including:
Exams and diagnostic X-rays
Teeth cleanings and fluoride treatments
Cavity prevention (sealants)
Fillings and tooth extractions
Root canals (on certain teeth)
Removable dentures
Periodontal treatment (for gum disease)
Limited oral surgery
Services that may require pre-authorization include:
Crowns and other major restorative procedures
Sedation
Specialist referrals
Services not covered:
Cosmetic procedures (e.g., teeth whitening, veneers)
Dental implants
Orthodontics (braces/invisalign)
Bridges, mouthguards, or bone grafts
What Will You Pay?
The amount of coverage you receive depends on your income:
Under $70,000/year: 100% of eligible costs covered
$70,000–$79,999/year: 60% covered, 40% paid by you
$80,000–$89,999/year: 40% covered, 60% paid by you
Important Notes:
Dentists may charge more than the CDCP’s fee schedule. You will be responsible for any difference.
The government pays dentists directly — you do not need to submit reimbursement claims.
How to Apply
You can apply through Service Canada online, by mail, or by phone. Once approved, you will receive:
A welcome package
Your CDCP card
Instructions on how to use your benefits
You must file your taxes annually and renew your eligibility each year to maintain coverage.
Dentist Participation
Not all dentists are participating in the program. Dentists must opt in to be CDCP providers.
Before booking an appointment:
Ask your dentist if they accept the CDCP
Confirm whether they follow the CDCP fee guide or charge extra
Review what services are covered and which may require prior approval
Some dental associations have voiced concerns about low reimbursement rates and administrative challenges, but participation continues to grow nationwide.
Feedback and Challenges
Since the CDCP’s launch:
Many Canadians have praised it for finally making dental care accessible
Others have expressed frustration over:
Delays in receiving cards and coverage
Limited dentist participation in some areas
Unclear communication around pre-authorizations and costs
Health Canada and Sun Life are working on improvements and are expected to expand provider engagement and streamline billing systems.
Final Thoughts
The CDCP marks a major shift in how Canada approaches dental care, offering a long-awaited bridge for those who couldn’t afford treatment before.
While the program is still evolving, it’s already making a meaningful difference in people's lives.
No one should suffer in silence over a toothache, and no Canadian should be left behind when it comes to oral health.
Help Spread the Word — One Smile at a Time!
Dental care should never be a luxury, and thanks to the Canadian Dental Care Plan, it's finally becoming a right - But not everyone knows they’re eligible.
Do you know someone who might qualify?A friend, a neighbour, a grandparent, or a struggling parent?
Share this article with them to help bridge the gap. A simple share might be all it takes to bring relief, confidence, and a healthy smile to someone who needs it.
Let’s make sure no Canadian is left behind when it comes to oral health.
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