Is My Child Eligible for Free Dental Care Under CDCP in BC?

CDCP eligibility depends on your adjusted family net income, your child’s age and residency status, and whether they have access to private dental insurance. When families meet these criteria, children can receive federally supported care for essential services, including routine visits and treatment at participating clinics. Families with lower incomes may have no out-of-pocket costs, while others may incur co-payments when seeking pediatric dental services.

In this guide, you will learn what CDCP covers for children, how eligibility works specifically for BC families, how it interacts with the British Columbia Healthy Kids Program, what documents you need, and how to find a participating dentist.

What the Canadian Dental Care Plan Offers for Children in Canada

The CDCP provides financial support for children who need preventive and routine dental treatment. Its purpose is to help families access essential care without delaying visits due to cost concerns. For children, early care is critical because it prevents complications that often require more complex treatment later.

The program covers many services necessary for maintaining a healthy smile. Families benefit from support for examinations, preventive cleanings, assessments, simple restorations, and specific specialty treatments. The exact amount paid depends on your income bracket and the national fee schedule. Understanding this structure helps parents make informed decisions about appointments and follow-up care.

Take a look: CDCP status checker

Which Age Groups Are Included, and What “Free” Means Under CDCP?

The CDCP includes children under 18 when they meet all federal requirements. “Free” means that the plan pays most or all of the provider’s fee under the federal schedule. However, this does not guarantee that every procedure is fully covered. Some families pay nothing for routine care, while others pay a portion depending on income.

Children do not qualify if they have access to private dental insurance. This point is often misunderstood. Even limited private plans disqualify a child from CDCP benefits.

Coverage limitations and co-payments for children

Coverage is broad but not unlimited. Cosmetic procedures are not included. Certain specialty services may require preauthorization depending on the complexity of care. Co-payments apply when a family’s income exceeds the lowest tier.

Parents should always ask the dental office to explain coverage before treatment. Services such as dental checkups, teeth cleaning, or treatments related to issues may include a co-payment, depending on the child’s eligibility tier.

Discover more: CDCP eligibility

Specific Eligibility Criteria for Children in British Columbia

Eligibility for BC families is determined by federal rules and confirmed through your most recent tax filing. Your child must be a Canadian resident, under 18, and without access to private dental insurance. The CRA verifies adjusted family net income to place your household in the correct cost-sharing tier.

Here is what CDCP checks for BC children:

1. Age: Child must be under 18.
2. Residency: Child must live in Canada.
3. Income: Eligibility is based on adjusted family net income from your latest tax return.
4. Insurance: The child cannot access private dental coverage through employment or other sources.
5. Tax filing: Parents or guardians must have filed the previous year’s taxes.
6. Identification: Child must have a valid government ID for verification.

Each dependent is reviewed individually, even within the same household. For example, one child may need preauthorization for a planned procedure while another only needs routine preventive care.

Read more: Dental insurance vs CDCP

How CDCP Works Alongside BC’s “Healthy Kids” and Other Provincial Programs

The Healthy Kids Program in British Columbia helps low-income families access dental services for children. This program covers specific basic treatments for eligible dependents and can complement federal benefits in particular situations.

When a child qualifies for both programs, the dental office may use provincial and federal coverage together, depending on the treatment required. Healthy Kids may support services that fall outside the CDCP fee schedule or help bridge gaps when a procedure requires additional coordination.

This dual support is particularly helpful for children who need ongoing care, such as cavities and fillings, extractions, or dentures. Coordinating both programs ensures families receive maximum coverage whenever possible.

How to Apply & What Documents You Need for Children CDCP

The application is completed through your CRA account. Preparing the necessary documents in advance makes the process smoother and prevents delays.

What you must have ready:

• Most recent Notice of Assessment
• Proof of guardianship for the child
• Confirmation that the child does not have private dental insurance
• Proof of residency in Canada
• Child’s identification
• CRA login details for verification
• Accurate adjusted family net income

After approval, you will receive information outlining your coverage level and whether co-payments apply. Keep this document handy when scheduling visits.

For more information, we recommend visiting the official Canadian Dental Care Plan Application Guide website.

Finding a Participating Dentist and What to Expect at the Appointment

Only participating providers can offer care under the CDCP. When booking at Smile Plus Dentistry, let the team know your child is enrolled in CDCP or BC Healthy Kids so the staff can verify coverage before the visit. This ensures you understand which services are fully covered and which may involve a co-payment.

During the appointment, the dentist will complete an assessment, review your child’s oral health, and recommend preventive or restorative care. Common treatments or specific procedures may be covered under CDCP support, depending on the eligibility tier. The provider will explain each step so parents know what to expect.

Your dental office will also help coordinate federal and provincial benefits when applicable, ensuring the most cost-effective and impactful approach to your child’s dental care and maximizing dental insurance benefits.

What to Do After Checking Child Eligibility for CDCP

Understanding your child’s eligibility for the Canadian Dental Care Plan comes down to a few key factors: income, age, residency, and access to private insurance. When these criteria are met, children in British Columbia can receive federally supported dental care that reduces or eliminates out-of-pocket costs. Combined with BC’s Healthy Kids Program, families can confidently access essential preventive and restorative services without delaying necessary treatment.

If you need help confirming eligibility or want guidance on how these programs apply to your family, Smile Plus Dentistry is here to support you. Our team will explain your coverage, assist with next steps, and provide trusted care through different services. Reach out to book your child’s visit and let us help you navigate CDCP benefits with clarity and confidence.

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