Dental questions & answers.
From whitening to veneers to digital tools—here’s what patients like you ask us every day. Explore the answers or search for something specific.
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Questions
The CDCP is a federal public dental care program aimed at providing essential dental services to eligible Canadian residents. It focuses on improving access to dental care and making oral health services more affordable. Learn more.
You can apply for the CDCP online through the official application portal. To complete your application, you’ll need to provide personal details, proof of residency, and other required documentation. If you need help, assistance is available through trusted individuals or delegates.
Eligibility for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) depends on several factors, including age, disability status, and income level. The plan covers seniors aged 65 and older, children under 18, and adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate.
All remaining eligible Canadians aged 18 to 64 without access to dental insurance have been able to apply since June 1, 2025. Learn more.
The CDCP covers a wide variety of dental services, including:
- Oral Surgery: Extractions and other necessary surgical procedures.
- Preventive Care: Cleanings, check-ups, fluoride treatments, and sealants.
- Diagnostic Services: Dental exams and X-rays.
- Restorative Treatments: Fillings and crowns to repair damaged teeth.
- Endodontic Procedures: Root canals for treating tooth infections.
- Prosthodontic Services: Complete and partial dentures.
- Periodontal Care: Deep cleaning for gum health.
Most of our clinics are happy to welcome patients under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Our Find your dentist page includes an easy filter to display only clinics accepting CDCP patients.
We also have several pages of information about CDCP to help patients learn about and apply for CDCP coverage. Visit our CDCP page to learn more.
To see if you qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), review the eligibility criteria based on your age, income, and health status. You can also use our eligibility checker tool or the tool on the official CDCP website for a quick assessment.
Stay up-to-date by regularly visiting this website and other official government resources. These sources provide the latest information on eligibility, coverage, application processes, and any changes to the CDCP.
Yes, you can switch to another participating dentist at any time. Simply use the CDCP directory to find a new provider who meets your preferences and needs.
If your CDCP application is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. The CDCP will provide detailed instructions on the appeal process, guiding you through the necessary steps to request reconsideration.
You can easily locate a CDCP-participating dentist using the Find Your Dentist search tool. The tool allows you to search by location, services offered, operating hours, languages spoken, and other preferences to find the right dental provider for your needs.
Orthodontic services aimed at improving oral health will be covered by the CDCP starting in 2025. These treatments will require preauthorization to ensure eligibility and coverage.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers a variety of preventive services, including routine dental check-ups, professional cleanings, fluoride applications, and sealants to help prevent cavities and maintain good oral health.
Yes, the CDCP provides coverage for restorative treatments, such as fillings to repair cavities and crowns to restore the shape and function of damaged teeth.
Yes, the CDCP covers emergency dental services to help with urgent dental issues, such as severe pain or infections, ensuring you get prompt care when needed.
Yes, you may need to cover costs that exceed the CDCP’s established fees or for services not included in the plan. Before starting any treatment, discuss potential out-of-pocket costs with your dental provider to avoid surprises.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers a portion of your dental care costs based on your adjusted family net income. Coverage percentages range from 40% to 100% of the established CDCP fees. Higher income brackets may require co-payments. Learn more.
Yes, you can get help from a trusted person or a delegate. This can be a family member, friend, or legal representative who is authorized to complete and submit the application on your behalf.
To apply for the CDCP, you’ll need to provide:
- Confirmation that you have filed your most recent tax return
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Date of birth
- Full name
- Home and mailing address
- Details of any existing dental coverage through government programs
Application dates for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) depend on your eligibility group:
- Seniors aged 65 and older: Applications opened in December 2023.
- Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate: Applications began on June 27, 2024.
- Children under 18: Applications opened on June 27, 2024.
- All other eligible residents: Applications on June 1, 2025.
All ages are now eligible to apply. Learn more.
Yes, children under 18 are eligible to apply for the CDCP. The application phase for children started on June 27, 2024. Learn more.
To verify eligibility for the CDCP, you will need:
- Proof of income (such as a Notice of Assessment from the CRA).
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- Proof of age (such as a birth certificate).
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill).