Who Is Eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Ever wished dental care could be easier on your wallet? You’re not alone. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a groundbreaking federal initiative that’s making that wish come true. But what criteria make you eligible for this plan? In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about CDCP eligibility, how it works, and why it matters for your smile and well-being. Let’s dive in.

What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program launched to fill a longstanding gap: dental services are not covered under Canada’s universal health care system. This plan provides coverage for a wide range of oral health services, preventive, diagnostic, restorative, and surgical, for eligible Canadians who lack private dental insurance.

Started in phases beginning in late 2023, CDCP is being rolled out gradually, prioritizing groups like seniors, children, and people with disabilities before opening to all uninsured Canadians.

Who Qualifies for the CDCP in 2025?

It’s not only your age that qualifies you for the CDCP, but your household income, residency status, and whether you’ve filed your taxes. In other words, the program targets those who are most likely to face financial barriers to getting essential dental treatment. In the following sections, we’ll break down each eligibility factor in detail.

Income-Based Eligibility

Eligibility starts with income. Your adjusted family net income must be under $90,000, and coverage rates adjust based on your income bracket. 

If you’re above $90,000 in adjusted family net income, unfortunately, you’re not eligible.

Eligible Groups: Kids, Seniors, and Adults

The CDCP covers all age groups, provided individuals meet the eligibility criteria. In other words, there is no age restriction specified in the program’s requirements. The program is being rolled out in phases by age and circumstance:

• Seniors (65+): Applications opened December 2023 
• Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit (DTC): Eligible since June 2024
• Children (under 18): Also eligible since June 2024 
• All remaining uninsured Canadians aged 18 – 64: Applications began rolling out in May 2025 (with specific dates for different age groups)

Reference: Canadian Government Dental Plan

Residency and Other Requirements

To qualify, you must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes and have filed your tax return (and your spouse/partner’s, if applicable) in Canada for the previous year. Also, you must not have access to any private dental insurance through work, school, pension, or group plans.

Additional Note: Even if you have government dental coverage (like provincial programs), you can still qualify, but benefits will be coordinated, not duplicated.

Benefits of Joining the CDCP

The CDCP isn’t just a name; it’s a lifeline. It can substantially reduce, or even eliminate, out-of-pocket dental costs, especially for lower-income Canadians. Therefore, dental care won’t be inaccessible. It covers a broad range of essential services, such as routine exams, teeth cleanings, X-rays, fillings, extractions, root canals, dentures, periodontal care, oral surgery, and even more, depending on preauthorization.

This program helps sustain good oral health, which in turn supports overall well-being; healthy teeth can reduce risks of serious issues like heart disease or infections. Another important benefit of this program is that it offers flexibility, meaning that providers submit claims directly to Sun Life, and many services can be covered, exceeding frequency limits with preauthorization if needed.

Final Word

The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a transformative step toward accessible oral health for millions. By knowing your eligibility and how the program works, you take control of your dental well-being, without breaking the bank. 

At Smile Plus Dentistry, we’re here to support your smile and guide you through every step, from application to treatment. You can rely on our dental team for high-quality dental services, both general dentistry and cosmetic treatments, whether covered by the CDCP or not!

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