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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:
    • Below $70,000: Eligible for full coverage.
    • $70,000 to $79,999: Eligible for partial coverage, with a co-payment required.
    • $80,000 to $89,999: Eligible for partial coverage, with a higher co-payment.
    • Above $90,000: Not eligible for the CDCP.
The co-payment structure is as follows:
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%
Note: Patients are responsible for any costs exceeding the CDCP’s established fees.

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.
Certain procedures may require preauthorization, especially for major services. It’s advisable to consult with your dental care provider to understand the specifics of coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.

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.
Applicants should refer to their eligibility letter or card for specific coverage start dates.

Accessing Services

To utilize CDCP benefits:
  1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria and have received confirmation of your enrollment.
  2. Find a Participating Dental Provider: Use the Sun Life provider search tool to locate a dentist who accepts CDCP coverage.
  3. Schedule an Appointment: Inform the dental office of your CDCP coverage when booking.
  4. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer CDCP benefits? Yes, we are pleased to accept patients covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Our team is committed to providing quality dental services to all eligible individuals.   Are individuals with existing coverage through government programs eligible for the CDCP? Individuals with existing dental benefits through provincial, territorial, or federal government programs may still be eligible for the CDCP, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.   Is the CDCP proposed to replace existing insurance coverage? No, the CDCP is designed to provide dental coverage for Canadians who do not have access to private dental insurance. It is not intended to replace existing insurance but to supplement coverage for those in need.   What steps should I take if I am eligible for the CDCP and wish to receive treatment at Eglinton Oak Dental? If you are eligible for the CDCP, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Inform our staff of your CDCP coverage, and we will guide you through the process to ensure you receive the appropriate dental care. For more information, visit the Government of Canada’s official CDCP page.