The Canadian Dental Care Plan “CDCP”
The Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal initiative designed to reduce financial barriers to oral health care for Canadians without dental insurance. It offers subsidies to eligible residents, including adults and seniors, ensuring access to essential dental services.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CDCP, individuals must fulfill the following conditions:- Lack of Dental Benefits: Applicants should not have access to private or workplace dental insurance.
- Adjusted Family Net Income: Eligibility is determined based on income:
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- Below $70,000: Eligible for full coverage.
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- $70,000 to $79,999: Eligible for partial coverage, with a co-payment required.
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- $80,000 to $89,999: Eligible for partial coverage, with a higher co-payment.
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- Above $90,000: Not eligible for the CDCP.
Adjusted Family Net Income | CDCP Coverage | Patient Co-payment |
Below $70,000 | 100% | 0% |
$70,000 – $79,999 | 60% | 40% |
$80,000 – $89,999 | 40% | 60% |
Coverage Details
The Canadian Dental Care plan for Adults and seniors covers a variety of dental services, including:- Preventive Services: Dental exams (complete, routine, specific, and emergency), x-rays, cleanings (scaling), fluoride applications, and sealants.
- Basic Services: Fillings, extractions, and root canals.
- Major Services: Crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic services for severe malocclusions.
Application Timeline
The CDCP is being implemented in phases:- Seniors aged 87 and above: Applications opened in December 2023.
- Seniors aged 77 to 86: Applications opened in January 2024.
- Seniors aged 72 to 76: Applications opened in February 2024.
- Seniors aged 70 to 71: Applications opened in March 2024.
- Seniors aged 65 to 69: Applications opened in May 2024.
- Persons with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate: Applications opened in June 2024.
- Children under age 18: Applications opened in June 2024.
- All remaining eligible Canadian residents: Applications are expected to open in 2025.
Accessing Services
To utilize CDCP benefits:- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria and have received confirmation of your enrollment.
- Find a Participating Dental Provider: Use the Sun Life provider search tool to locate a dentist who accepts CDCP coverage.
- Schedule an Appointment: Inform the dental office of your CDCP coverage when booking.
- Understand Potential Costs: Discuss any potential co-payments or additional charges with your dentist before receiving services.
Additional Considerations
- Preauthorization: Starting November 2024, certain treatments may require prior approval. Consult with your dental provider to determine if this applies to your planned procedures.
- Service Limitations: There may be frequency limits on specific services. Review the Government of Canada’s coverage details or consult your dentist for more information.