The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a relatively new federal program designed to help Canadians who don’t have dental insurance access the care they need. If you’ve been hearing about it but aren’t quite sure how it works — or whether your benefits can be used at our office — here’s a clear, straightforward breakdown.
Who Qualifies for the CDCP?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is intended for Canadians who do not have access to dental benefits through an employer, school, or other private plan. Eligibility is also based on household income — applicants must have an adjusted family net income below $90,000 per year. Eligible individuals include Canadian residents who file their taxes and meet the income criteria. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, the Government of Canada’s official website provides an up-to-date eligibility checker.
What Does the CDCP Cover?
The plan covers a range of preventive and restorative dental services. Eligible services generally include diagnostic procedures like exams and X-rays, preventive care such as cleanings and fluoride treatments, basic restorations including fillings, and other services such as extractions and certain emergency dental care. The amount the plan pays toward each service depends on your household income — coverage ranges from 40% to 100% of the approved fee schedule, depending on your income bracket.
It’s worth noting that the CDCP uses its own fee schedule, which may differ from what dental offices charge. Any difference between the plan amount and the actual treatment fee is the patient’s responsibility.
How It Works at Our Office
Our office welcomes patients who are enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our practice is not registered as a direct CDCP billing provider, which means we do not submit claims on your behalf. Instead, patients pay the treatment fee at the time of their appointment and then submit a claim directly to Sun Life (the administrator of the CDCP) to receive reimbursement for the eligible portion of their costs.
We’re happy to provide you with any documentation you need to support your claim, including an itemized receipt and treatment codes. If you have questions about this process before your visit, our front desk team can walk you through what to expect.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
If you plan to use your CDCP benefits, it helps to have your plan member information available when you arrive. This typically includes your CDCP member ID number, which you receive when you’re approved for the plan. Having this on hand speeds up the process and ensures your receipt includes the information you’ll need for your claim.
Making the Most of Your Coverage
If you’ve been putting off dental care because of cost, the CDCP is a meaningful opportunity to get back on track. Whether you’re due for a cleaning, have a concern you’ve been avoiding, or simply want to establish care with a local dentist, now is a
good time to book.
We’re proud to serve families and individuals throughout St. Catharines and the Niagara region, and we’re committed to helping every patient navigate their coverage clearly and comfortably. Contact our office today to book your appointment or to ask any questions about how your CDCP benefits can work for you.