Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) FAQs
What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The CDCP is a federal program that supports the cost of dental care for Canadian residents who lack access to private or employer dental insurance. The CDCP is overseen by Health Canada and administered by Sun Life Financial.
Who does the CDCP support?
Any Canadian resident with a family income — called an adjusted family net income (AFNI) — of under $90,000 who do not have employer or private dental benefits may receive the CDCP. As well, people who have coverage under other government benefits can still get the CDCP.
Does the CDCP cover all dental care?
Depending on your household income, you may have to make co-pays for dental care. As well, some dental procedures must be approved before they will be covered.
Income $80,000 - $89,999: patient co-pays 60% of dental costs
$70,000 - $79,999: patient co-pays 40%
Under $70,000: no co-pay
Might there be other costs the CDCP does not cover?
The CDCP only covers the cost of a procedure up to the amount outlined in Health Canada’s dental benefit grid — basically a price guide for all procedures. Some dentists may charge more. The patient may have to pay this difference, which is called “balance billing.”
How does receiving care at the Faculty of Dentistry impact my costs?
The Faculty of Dentistry charges less than federal and provincial fee guides suggest for treatment. So, if you do have a co-pay, it will be smaller. There is no balance billing at the Faculty as we charge less than the benefits grid. You may also be eligible for assistance with uncovered costs — speak to your student dentist at your appointment about this.
Will the CDCP contribute to all my different treatments?
The CDCP, once you are approved, will cover most routine, general dentistry such as cleanings and fillings automatically. However, some more complex treatments require pre-approval. Your health care provider will help gain this approval, but you may have to wait to find out if you are covered for things such as crowns, some surgeries, moderate and deep sedation, as well as other treatments. Approval can take a few weeks.
Do I pay out of pocket for CDCP covered costs?
No. The CDCP directly reimburses the Faculty for whatever amount it will cover. You don’t pay out of pocket for this amount.
How do I register for the CDCP?
Apply online anytime here. You need your social insurance number (SIN) — or that of your child, if they have one, if you are applying on their behalf — date of birth, full name, home and mailing address and details of any other dental coverage. Each person in your household must apply separately. By phone call 1-833-537-4342 and for TTY services, dial 1-833-677-6262. You should hear in a few weeks if you have been accepted. If you are, you will get a determination letter. After that, Sun Life will send a welcome package that includes a CDCP member card and more information.
How often do you have to renew CDCP coverage?
It must be renewed every year. You want to renew by June 1 every year to avoid a gap in coverage. However, even if you miss that deadline, you can reapply any time. When you reapply, it’s a simpler process. (You also keep the same member card.)
How can I make applying and renewing CDCP easier?
Health Canada suggests people deal with their CDCP administration through the My Service Canada portal. You need to register for an account for this portal, but it makes accessing the CDCP easier.
CDCP Quick Links