Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Information for Patients

Access to dental care is essential to maintain your overall health. At Family Dental Care, we are committed to helping patients understand their options under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), a new federal program designed to make oral health care more affordable for millions of Canadians. Whether you are planning your first visit or trying to understand your coverage, this page will walk you through the essentials in clear, simple terms.

The CDCP helps eligible residents reduce out-of-pocket dental costs by covering a portion of services, including exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, root canals, dentures, and oral surgery. For many patients, this means improved access to preventive and restorative care that supports long-term oral and overall health. Dental care is directly linked to the prevention of gum disease, tooth decay, and even systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Who Is Eligible for the CDCP?

To qualify, you must meet all of the following:

  • No access to dental insurance (public or private)
  • Adjusted family net income under $90,000
  • Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
  • You and your spouse/common-law partner must have filed income taxes so your eligibility can be assessed

If approved, you will receive a welcome package with your benefit start date, the earliest date you may begin using your CDCP coverage.

What Services Are Covered?

The CDCP covers a wide range of dental services when recommended by an oral health provider, including:

  • Dental exams
  • Scaling/cleaning
  • X-rays
  • Fillings
  • Removable dentures
  • Root canal therapy
  • Oral surgery

Coverage is based on established CDCP fees. The program reimburses a portion of the cost depending on your income level. You may still have out-of-pocket expenses if:

  • Your family income is $70,000 – $89,999
  • Your provider’s fees are higher than the CDCP-established fees
  • You agree to additional services that are not covered under the CDCP

Understanding Co-Payments and Costs

Even with CDCP coverage, you may be responsible for a portion of the cost.

Here is a simplified look at how co-payments work:

  • No co-payment: Adjusted family net income under $70,000
  • 40% co-payment: Adjusted family net income $70,000 – $79,999
  • 60% co-payment: Adjusted family net income $80,000 – $89,999

Examples from the Government of Canada illustrate this using a standard cleaning (2 units of scaling). Depending on your income, you may pay $11 – $91.40 based on the provider’s fees and your required co-payment.

Before receiving any treatment, always ask:

  • What portion of my visit is covered?
  • What will I be responsible for paying?
  • Are there any additional charges not included under CDCP?

Important Information Before Booking an Appointment

The Government of Canada emphasizes the following steps for all CDCP patients:

  1. Confirm that the provider accepts CDCP patients and bills Sun Life directly.
  2. Do not pay the full treatment cost upfront. CDCP only reimburses providers, not patients.
  3. Know your co-payment percentage before your appointment.
  4. Ask your dental provider about any additional, non-covered costs before treatment.
  5. To find participating providers, use the CDCP Sun Life Provider Search Tool, but note that not all participating providers appear in the search tool. You may need to call clinics directly.

How Family Dental Care Supports CDCP Patients

Dr. Gaurang Bhatt and our team are committed to helping patients understand their benefits and feel confident using their CDCP coverage. When you contact our office:

  • We will confirm whether we accept CDCP patients at the time of booking
  • We will help you understand expected fees and potential out-of-pocket costs
  • We will provide treatment recommendations that align with your needs and your coverage
  • We will bill Sun Life directly for all CDCP-covered services

Our goal is to make your experience smooth, transparent, and stress-free.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

If you believe you qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan or have already received your welcome package, we would be happy to guide you through your next steps.

Family Dental Care – Dr. Gaurang Bhatt

https://www.familydentalcare.ca

(289) 813-3441

Whether you’re scheduling your first appointment under the CDCP or need help understanding your coverage, our team is ready to support you. Reach out today to get started on a healthier, brighter smile.