Accessing dental care for you and your family shouldn’t be stressful or full of unknowns. If you’re a parent considering the benefits of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) for your family, this guide is created just for you. We’ll walk you through CDCP dental coverage, who can qualify, what services are covered, how to apply, and how this fits alongside other insurance. By the end, you’ll feel confident about whether this plan can help your dental health.
What Is CDCP Dental Coverage?
The CDCP is a federal program providing dental care coverage to eligible Canadian residents without private dental insurance and under certain income thresholds. Through the plan, a range of diagnostic, preventive, restorative, major, and emergency dental services may be covered, either fully or partially, at fees established by the plan.
Why the Government Introduced This Program
The Canadian government launched the CDCP to reduce barriers to dental care for underserved populations, children, seniors, adults with disabilities, and those without insurance.
According to the Canadian Dental Association, many individuals previously skipped necessary dental treatment because of cost; untreated dental issues can lead to pain, infection, and greater health risks. With CDCP dental coverage, the goal is better oral health outcomes and prevention of more serious complications.
Who Is Eligible for CDCP Dental Coverage?
To qualify for CDCP dental coverage, you and your child must meet the following conditions:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Have filed your most recent tax return
- Have no access to private or employer dental insurance
- Have an adjusted family net income below $90,000 per year
Here’s how coverage works depending on your family income:
| Adjusted Family Net Income | CDCP Pays | You Pay |
| Under $70,000 | 100% | 0% |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | 60% | 40% |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | 40% | 60% |
Keep in mind that if your dentist charges more than the CDCP’s fee guide, you’ll be responsible for the difference.
Worth Reading: Affordable Dental Care for Low Income Patients
What Services Are Covered Under CDCP Dental Coverage?
CDCP dental coverage includes a wide range of services for both preventive and restorative care. Understanding what’s covered will help you plan your child’s treatment confidently.
Preventive Services
Preventive care is the foundation of dental health. Under CDCP, regular check-ups, teeth cleanings, X-rays, and fluoride treatments are covered. These help identify and stop small dental issues before they become serious. For children, this means fewer cavities, healthier gums, and less risk of dental pain.
Further Reading: Demystifying Dental X-rays
Basic Services
Basic services address common dental problems such as tooth decay or damage. CDCP covers dental fillings to restore teeth, tooth extractions when a tooth cannot be saved, and minor oral surgeries. These procedures help prevent infection and preserve your child’s dental structure and comfort.
Major Treatments
Major dental services are more complex and often require pre-approval. CDCP may cover treatments such as root canals to save infected teeth, crowns to repair damaged ones, and dentures or bridges to replace missing teeth. These procedures ensure long-term dental stability and proper function.
Orthodontics
Starting in 2025, medically necessary orthodontic treatments, such as braces for serious bite issues, will be covered by CDCP with pre-approval. This doesn’t include cosmetic orthodontics but focuses on treatments that improve oral function and health.
Emergency Care
CDCP also covers emergency dental services like urgent exams and treatments for pain, infections, or trauma. This way, you can feel reassured knowing that sudden dental problems won’t turn into financial stress.
What Services Are Not Covered?
Not every dental service is included under CDCP dental coverage. Pure cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and some implants, are excluded. Night guards or sports guards are also not covered. Knowing this helps avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Suggested Article: Find an IFHP Dentist in Toronto and North York
How to Apply for CDCP Dental Coverage
Applying for cdcp dental coverage is simple once you have your documents ready.
- Check eligibility: Confirm that you and your child meet the criteria for income and residency.
- Gather required documents: You’ll need your Social Insurance Number, date of birth, and proof of income from your last tax return.
- Submit your application: Apply online through the CDCP portal or by mail, depending on the rollout phase for your age group.
- Wait for your card: Once approved, you’ll receive a welcome package with your start date and coverage details.
- Book with a participating dentist: Make sure your dental provider accepts CDCP billing before scheduling an appointment.
How to Enroll Your Child
Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of eligible children. You’ll include your child’s details on your application form, and once approved, they’ll be covered under your household’s CDCP account. Remember to bring their CDCP card to their first appointment; your dentist will need it to bill the program directly.
Contact Your CDCP Dentist Today!
At Walk In Family Dentistry, we proudly support CDCP services and are ready to help your family access quality dental care at reduced costs. Call us today or book an appointment online; our team will guide you through the CDCP enrollment process and ensure your child receives the care they deserve.
How CDCP Dental Coverage Works With Other Insurance
The CDCP is designed for families who don’t have private dental insurance. If you already have coverage through an employer, pension plan, or another provider, your child won’t qualify. However, CDCP can work alongside some government or provincial programs. If your family is covered by other public assistance, ask your dentist how those benefits coordinate with CDCP to make sure you get the most out of both.
If you’re unsure, our friendly staff at Walk In Family Dentistry can review your situation and help you understand how your benefits fit together.
Related article: What Are the Best Dental Insurances in Canada?
CDCP Dental Coverage: Apply Today for Better Oral Health
With this program, families can access the dental care they deserve. Whether you and your family need preventive cleanings, fillings, or more complex treatment, CDCP can help reduce costs and promote lifelong oral health.
The CDCP opens the door to affordable, high-quality dental care and Walk In Family Dentistry is proud to be part of it. We accept CDCP patients and can provide all covered services under the program.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and start using your CDCP benefits for a healthier, brighter smile. We also offer various dental discounts in North York that you’ll be surprised by!
FAQ
Can I use CDCP dental coverage for my child’s routine check-ups?
Yes. Preventive care, like exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments, are included under CDCP. These help keep your child’s teeth healthy and prevent future dental issues.
What happens if my income increases after I’m approved?
If your adjusted family net income rises above $90,000, your eligibility may change the following year. Be sure to report your income accurately each tax year.
Will CDCP cover braces for my child?
Orthodontic care has been included in CDCP in 2025, but only if it’s medically necessary. Cosmetic braces won’t be covered.
Can I choose any dentist?
You can visit any dentist who participates in the CDCP program. Always confirm before your appointment to ensure they accept CDCP billing.
Will I have to pay anything out of pocket?
Depending on your income and your dentist’s fees, you may be responsible for part of the cost. The CDCP pays based on its own fee guide, so if your dentist’s rates are higher, you’ll pay the difference.
Have questions or personal experiences with the CDCP? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you.
