Understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP): How to Apply and What It Covers

Understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP): How to Apply and What It Covers

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is an exciting federal initiative designed to ensure affordable dental care for millions of Canadians without private dental insurance. Rolling out in phases, the CDCP aims to be fully available to all eligible Canadians by 2025.

Who is Eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

To qualify for coverage under the CDCP, applicants must meet these straightforward criteria:

• Canadian Residency: Applicants must reside in Canada and be considered residents for tax purposes.

• Income Requirements: Your adjusted family net income should be less than $90,000 per year.

• No Existing Dental Insurance: You must not already have access to any form of private dental insurance (personal or employer-provided).

• Tax Compliance: Ensure you have filed your tax return for the previous year and received a Notice of Assessment.

Application Timeline: When Can You Apply?

The CDCP is being implemented gradually:

• Seniors (65+): Applications began in December 2023.

• Adults with Disabilities: If you have a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate, applications started in June 2024.

• Children under 18: Applications opened in June 2024.

• All other eligible residents: Applications will open in 2025.

As of January 2025, over three million Canadians have been approved under the CDCP, with 1.2 million having already received care.

How to Apply for the CDCP

Applying for the CDCP is simple and can be done online or by phone:

1. Visit the official Government of Canada website to access the online portal.

2. Prepare the following required information:

   • Social Insurance Number (SIN)

   • Date of birth

   • Full name

   • Home and mailing addresses

   • Information about any current dental coverage from government programs

   • Tax documents (most recent Notice of Assessment)

3. Submit your application online. If you can't apply online, call 1-833-537-4342 for assistance.

Official CDCP Application Portal:

• Apply for Canadian Dental Care Plan - Government of Canada

Eligibility and Coverage Details:

• Eligibility Criteria & Covered Services - Government of Canada

My Service Canada Account (for renewals):

• My Service Canada Account (MSCA)

After You Apply: Next Steps

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a welcome package from Sun Life (the plan administrator) within three months. The package includes your member card, detailed coverage information, and your official start date.

Renewal Process (Important Update as of March 7, 2025)

Beginning in March 2025, current CDCP members are required to renew their coverage to maintain benefits:

1. File Your 2024 Tax Return: Ensure you've filed your 2024 tax return and received your Notice of Assessment.

2. Renew Online or via My Service Canada Account (MSCA): Renew coverage through the official Government of Canada website, MSCA, or via the automated phone service available 24/7.

3. Renew Before June 1, 2025: To avoid any gaps in coverage, submit your renewal application before this date.

You'll receive a determination letter confirming your renewed eligibility and coverage details. Inform your dental provider of any changes to prevent unexpected charges. You can continue using your current member card if eligible; no new card will be issued unless specified.

What Dental Services Does the CDCP Cover?

The CDCP covers a wide range of essential dental services, including:

• Preventive Care: Cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments

• Diagnostic Services: Routine check-ups, X-rays

• Restorative Care: Fillings, crowns

• Endodontics: Root canal treatments

• Periodontics: Gum disease treatment (scaling and root planing)

• Prosthodontics: Dentures and bridges

• Oral Surgery: Extractions and minor surgeries

Note: Cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening are not covered by the CDCP.

Understanding Co-Payments

Depending on your income, you might be responsible for co-payments:

• Income below $70,000: 100% coverage, no co-payment

• Income $70,000 - $79,999: 40% co-payment required

• Income $80,000 - $89,999: 60% co-payment required

Always confirm with your dental provider if additional charges apply beyond the plan coverage.

Choosing a Dental Provider

Not all dentists participate in the CDCP, so check with your provider to ensure they accept CDCP coverage before scheduling your appointment.

Conclusion

The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a major step toward better dental health for Canadians. By understanding your eligibility, application process, covered services, renewal requirements, and potential co-payments, you can take full advantage of this excellent program. At EBIKO Dental, we're committed to keeping our community informed and helping you access quality dental care.