The Canadian Dental Care Program (CDCP) is a government-funded program that aims to provide accessible dental care to all Canadians by covering a wide range of services that they need and deserve. Since 2022, it’s been rolling out in phases and will continue to do so until 2025. We’ll explain everything you need to know about this program including the key benefits, what it covers and how and when to apply.

The Key Benefits of the CDCP

One of the key benefits of this program is that it helps to promote good oral health and prevent dental issues before they become more serious or costly. By providing regular check-ups and cleanings, the program aims to help Canadians achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums and reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease and other problems.

Another benefit is that it helps make dental care more affordable for low-income individuals or families, as well as older Canadians. Dental treatments can be expensive which can lead to people avoiding the dental care they need altogether. The program helps to bridge the gap by providing subsidized dental care to those who may not be able to afford it otherwise.

Lastly, the program aims to help reduce the burden on the healthcare system by ensuring that people have access to preventative care. By promoting good oral health habits and providing early intervention, the program can prevent more serious dental issues that may require more extensive (and expensive) treatment or surgery.

What Services Are Covered?

It’s important to note that the CDCP does not offer free dental care. It will help cover a portion of the cost while you pay for the rest not covered. You may also be required to make a co-payment depending on your net family income. Some services will also require pre-authorization which means that the CDCP will take into consideration your oral history and medical condition before approving coverage. Examples of services that could be covered include:

Dental exams
X-rays
Cleaning and scaling
Fluoride applications
Temporary and permanent fillings
Root canal treatment
Crowns and crown repairs
Complete and partial dentures
Oral surgery
Sedation services

Orthodontic services will be added in 2025, however, there will be a spending limit and will only be covered if medically needed.

In order to ensure you’ll receive payment or reimbursement for the services you’ve received, the CDCP must receive a claim within one year from the date of service. Claims older than one year will not be eligible or accepted.

How to Apply

First, you will need to make sure your dentist is taking part in the CDCP as it is not mandatory. Next, you’ll need to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements (you do not have access to dental insurance, your net family income is $90,000 or less, you’re a Canadian resident, and you’ve filed your tax return for the previous year). You’ll also need to check when you can apply.

As of July 2024, all phases are now open. The remaining eligible Canadians can apply in 2025. You can apply online and will need to fill out the following information:

Social Insurance Number
Date of birth
Full name
Mailing address
List of dental coverage through government social programs (if applicable)
You and your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) must have filed your tax return for 2023 and have received your Notice of Assessment

You must fill out an application for each individual that qualifies. You’ll also be able to check the status of your application online with a code and client number, or by giving the Government of Canada a call.

The CDCP Can Improve Your Oral Health & Well-Being

This program provides dental coverage for individuals and families across Canada who require accessible services. The plan will cover a range of dental services and procedures that patients need to achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums. Overall, it plays a crucial role in promoting oral health and well-being for Canadians of all ages. DentiFlow is pleased to be participating in the Canadian Dental Care Program and looks forward to helping patients achieve healthy smiles!