The Canadian Dental Care Plan Coverage (CDCP) is a groundbreaking program providing affordable dental care to millions of Canadians. As of 2025, this comprehensive plan extends to all eligible age groups, ensuring access to essential dental treatment for children, seniors, and working-age adults.
But with a wide range of services offered and certain exclusions, understanding what’s covered—and what costs may still fall on you—is key to maximizing your benefits. Below, we break down all you need to know, by category and age group.
Eligibility for Canadian Dental Care Plan Coverage
To qualify for CDCP, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Canadian resident
- Have an adjusted family net income under $90,000
- No private dental insurance
- Filed tax returns for the prior year (necessary for income assessment)
The program includes children, seniors, and adults aged 18-64 as of its final rollout in May 2025. Coverage levels vary by income bracket:
- Under $70,000: 100% coverage (0% co-pay)
- $70,000-$79,999: 60% coverage (40% co-pay)
- $80,000-$89,999: 40% coverage (60% co-pay)
What Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan Cover?
CDCP provides access to basic and preventive dental care crucial for oral health. Services focus on preventing major issues and addressing key restorative needs.
Covered Procedures:
- Preventive care: Cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, X-rays
- Basic restorations: Fillings, basic root canals
- Periodontal care: Scaling, root planing, general maintenance
- Oral surgeries: Simple tooth extractions
- Prosthodontic care: Full and partial dentures
- Simple crowns (limited to necessary cases)
However, not all treatments are included, particularly cosmetic and specialized procedures.
Excluded Procedures:
- Cosmetic treatments (teeth whitening, veneers)
- Orthodontics (braces/Invisalign—except for severe medical cases)
- Fixed prosthodontics (bridges, implants)
- Night guards, mouth guards, and TMJ therapy
Comparison of Services Covered vs Not Covered
Use the table below to understand which procedures are included under CDCP and estimates of out-of-pocket costs based on income.
| Procedure Category | Specific Services | Covered? | Out-of-Pocket Costs ($200 Example) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive Care | Exams, cleaning, fluoride treatments | Yes | $0 (under $70k), $80 (under $80k), $120 (under $90k) |
| Cosmetic | Teeth whitening, veneers | No | 100% out-of-pocket |
| Periodontal | Scaling, deep cleaning | Yes | $0, $80, $120 |
| Implants | Custom implants, bridges | No | 100% out-of-pocket |
A Breakdown of CDCP Benefits by Age Group
For Children Under 18
Children benefit from extensive coverage of preventive and restorative treatments to promote early-age oral health. Dentures and extractions are also included.
- Best for: Cavity fillings, routine cleanings.
- Example: A child’s fluoride treatment process is 100% free for families making under $70,000 annually.
Adults (18-64)
With adults accessing the program from May 2025, the CDCP ensures comprehensive funding for a mix of routine and necessary dental interventions.
- Best for: Root canals, dentures, periodontal care.
- Example: A 32-year-old professional received scaling treatment for just $80 by qualifying under the second-tier income.
Seniors (65+)
The CDCP helps cover more extensive dental requirements seniors often face, such as full dentures and oral surgeries. Scaling and extractions remain fully supported.
- Best for: Restorative dentures and ongoing periodontal maintenance.
- Example: Simple dentures costing $3,000 were funded 100% for a retiree in British Columbia on qualifying income.
How to Maximize Your Benefits
Follow these practical tips to ensure you make the most of your CDCP entitlement:
- Prioritize preventive appointments to avoid costlier interventions.
- Schedule major treatments early, as annual maximums apply (usually set at $5,000).
- Work with CDCP-approved clinics for predictable fees.
- Look into provincial programs for additional support.
What’s Next for CDCP?
The CDCP continues evolving to better serve Canadians. While orthodontics remains excluded for most, coverage trends indicate potential additions for severe cases in 2026. Likewise, annual expense maximums may rise to align with inflation.
Find Approved CDCP Clinics Near You
Access certified dental professionals participating in the CDCP network near your location at Canada.ca/dental. Many clinics offer fast-track openings for first-time registrants. Don’t delay—improve your oral health today.
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