The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) has expanded its reach. Verify if your family qualifies for reduced or free dental care and understand the new coverage schedule.
What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program designed to help ease financial barriers to accessing oral health care. It is not designed to replace existing workplace or private insurance benefits, but rather to fill the gap for the millions of Canadians who have no dental coverage at all.
2026 Update: As of January 2026, the program is fully operational for all eligible groups, including seniors aged 65+, persons with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate, and children under 18. The administration is handled by Sun Life on behalf of the Government of Canada.
For full Verified details, you can visit the Government of Canada’s CDCP Verified Page. It is crucial to understand that CDCP fees may not cover 100% of what your dentist charges if they do not follow the CDCP fee guide, so always check with your provider first.
Eligibility Checklist: Do You Qualify?
To qualify for the CDCP, you must meet all of the specific criteria set by the CRA and Health Canada. Click the items below to check them off.
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No Private Dental InsuranceYou do not have access to dental coverage through an employer, pension, or professional organization.
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Adjusted Family Net IncomeYour annual adjusted family net income must be less than $90,000.
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Tax Filing StatusYou filed your income tax return for the previous year (2024/2025).
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Canadian ResidentYou are a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
If you checked all four boxes, you are highly likely eligible to apply.
What Services are Covered?
The CDCP covers a wide range of oral health care services recommended by a dental professional. Examples of covered services include the following:
Note: Some complex services (like crowns or partial dentures) require “Pre-authorization” from Sun Life. This means your dentist must ask for approval before starting the treatment.
Co-Payments: How Much Will You Pay?
CDCP is not always free. Depending on your family income, you may have to pay a portion of the cost (a “co-payment”).
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Your Co-Payment % | CDCP Covers % |
|---|---|---|
| Below $70,000 | 0% (Free) | 100% |
| $70,000 to $79,999 | 40% | 60% |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 60% | 40% |
*Additional fees may apply if your dentist charges more than the established CDCP fees.
Step-by-Step Application Strategy
Applying is straightforward if you have your documents ready. The fastest way to apply is online through the government portal.
- Prepare Information: Have your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and Date of Birth ready. Ensure you have filed your latest tax return.
- Apply Online: Visit the Verified portal. The process takes about 10 minutes.
- Receive Welcome Package: If approved, Sun Life will mail you a welcome package with your Member Card and start date within 3 months.
Ready to start? Access the CDCP Application Portal here. If you cannot apply online, you can call Service Canada at 1-833-537-4342.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Participation is voluntary for oral health providers. You must ask your dentist if they participate in the CDCP before booking an appointment.
If you have ANY access to dental insurance (even if you choose not to use it or it has low limits), you are generally NOT eligible for CDCP.
Generally, no. CDCP focuses on essential health services. Orthodontics for purely cosmetic reasons are not covered, though some medically necessary cases may be considered with strict pre-authorization.
Yes. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of children under the age of 18 if the family meets the income and residency criteria.
You pay your portion directly to the dentist at the time of the appointment. Sun Life pays the remaining portion directly to the provider.