Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) 2026
The massive rollout continues. Millions of Canadians aged 18-64 are now eligible to apply. Check your coverage level and family income thresholds immediately.
What Changes in 2026?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is designed to help reduce financial barriers to accessing oral health care for eligible Canadian residents. After successfully covering seniors and children under 18, the program enters its most significant phase in 2026: opening up to the general working-age population.
This is a “payer of last resort” model, meaning it is not designed to replace existing workplace insurance but to fill the gap for those who have no access to private dental coverage. Let’s dig deep into the specific eligibility criteria you must meet to qualify.
Who Qualifies for CDCP?
To receive your Sun Life membership card and start booking appointments, you must meet ALL of the following four conditions without exception.
Mandatory Requirements
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Service Canada manages the application intake, while Sun Life manages the claims. You cannot go to a dentist until you have completed this process.
Visit the Service Canada website. You will need your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and Date of Birth. The system will verify your tax information in real-time.
If approved, Service Canada shares your info with Sun Life. Within 3 months of your start date, Sun Life will mail you a Welcome Package containing your membership card and policy number.
Find a participating CDCP oral health provider. Confirm they accept CDCP before receiving care.
Coverage Amounts: Do You Pay Anything?
This is the most critical part. The CDCP does not always cover 100% of the cost. Depending on your family income, you may be responsible for a “co-payment” percentage.
| Adjusted Family Net Income | CDCP Covers | You Pay (Co-Pay) |
|---|---|---|
| Below $70,000 | 100% | 0% |
| $70,000 to $79,999 | 60% | 40% |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 40% | 60% |
β οΈ Important Warning: Dentists can charge fees above the CDCP established fees. If your dentist charges more than the plan’s rate, you must pay the difference directly, even if you are in the “100% Covered” bracket. Always ask for a pre-determination of costs.
Avoid Disqualification
Many applicants are rejected due to misunderstandings about private insurance rules.
Do Not Cancel Your Private Insurance
If you currently have access to dental insurance (e.g., through work), you are not eligible for the CDCP. If you voluntarily opt-out or cancel your private insurance specifically to qualify for the CDCP, you will still be considered ineligible. The government checks employment records.
Verified Resources & Contacts
Use these verified links to start your application or check your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
The plan covers a wide range of services including cleaning (scaling), polishing, exams, x-rays, fillings, root canals, and dentures. Some major services (like crowns or complex dentures) require pre-authorization from Sun Life before treatment begins.
No. Cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening, dental implants, and mouthguards for sports are NOT covered under the CDCP.
You must visit a dentist (or hygienist/denturist) who has agreed to participate in the CDCP. While most providers have signed up, some have not. Always verify participation when booking your appointment.
You need to meet the eligibility requirements every year. However, Service Canada will automatically verify your income through your tax return each year to renew your eligibility. You do not need to submit a new application form annually unless requested.