Canadian Dental Care Plan

How It Works

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a government initiative aimed at helping individuals without private dental insurance access affordable dental services. Eligibility is determined by household income, residency, and tax filing status, with full or partial coverage based on adjusted family net income. Those earning under $70,000 receive full coverage at CDCP rates, while partial coverage is available for incomes up to $89,999. Some services may still incur out-of-pocket costs, especially if provider fees exceed CDCP rates.


The CDCP covers a wide range of dental services, including preventive, diagnostic, restorative, and surgical treatments. Certain procedures require preauthorization, and orthodontic care is only available under strict medical necessity. To qualify, applicants must meet all four eligibility criteria, and once approved, will receive a Member ID, co-payment details, and a Sun Life member card. Coverage coordination is available for those enrolled in other government dental programs.

Household Income and Coverage Levels

Coverage under the CDCP is based on your adjusted family net income, which is assessed through your most recent tax return:

Adjusted Family Net Income CDCP Covers You Cover (Co-payment)
Under $70,000 100% of eligible services at CDCP rates 0% (you may still face additional fees)
$70,000 – $79,999 60% of eligible services at CDCP rates 40% of CDCP rates
$80,000 – $89,999 40% of eligible services at CDCP rates 60% of CDCP rates

Note: Our office may charge more than CDCP's established fees. Any additional cost is your responsibility. Always confirm coverage and fees with our office before receiving care.

What Services Are Covered?

The CDCP covers a broad range of services when recommended by a dentist or other oral health provider. Some services require preauthorization before treatment. Covered Services Include:


  • Preventive Care: Exams, cleanings (scaling), fluoride applications, sealants
  • Diagnostic Services: Routine, emergency, and specific dental exams; x-rays
  • Restorative Services: Fillings (temporary and permanent), pain control, crowns (with preauthorization)
  • Endodontics: Root canals, pulpectomies, infection treatment (re-treatment requires preauthorization)
  • Periodontics: Gum disease care including deep cleanings, abscess treatment, non-surgical management
  • Prosthodontics (Removable): Complete and partial dentures, repairs, relines, rebases (some require preauthorization)
  • Oral Surgery: Tooth and root extractions, cyst or tumor removal, jaw treatments
  • Anesthesia & Sedation: Conscious sedation, general anesthesia (requires preauthorization)
  • Orthodontics: Will be limited to medically necessary cases with strict criteria and spending caps.


Note: Always confirm with our office to see if a service requires preauthorization or may result in out-of-pocket expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify for the CDCP if you meet all four of the following conditions:


  • No access to dental insurance through work, school, or private purchase
  • You and your spouse/partner (if applicable) filed a Canadian tax return for the previous year
  • Adjusted family net income is under $90,000
  • You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes


If you have dental coverage through a government social program, you may still qualify. The CDCP will coordinate coverage to avoid duplication.

Once You Apply

Once approved, you’ll receive:


  • A letter with your CDCP Member ID, start date, and co-payment level
  • A member card from Sun Life
  • Instructions to book care (appointments must be on or after your benefit start date)

How to Apply

Learn more and apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) through the Government of Canada’s official website. Learn more or apply here.