The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

October 18, 2024

Have you heard about the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)? Announced by the federal government in 2023, it’s been rolling out slowly in stages. All Canadians are expected to be able to apply starting in 2025.

While the idea of universal health and dental coverage might be very attractive, the rules around this new dental care plan in Canada can be confusing. Let’s take a look at some common misconceptions about the CDCP coverage.

Misconception #1: All Canadians qualify for CDCP

Currently, only seniors aged 65 and over, children under the age of 18, and adults with a disability tax credit certificate for 2023 are eligible. However, starting in 2025, all eligible Canadians are expected to be able to apply.

In order to qualify for the CDCP, you must have an adjusted family income of less than $90,000 in 2024.¹ “Adjusted family income” means your income plus your spouse’s income, less any income you received from universal childcare benefits (UCCB) or a registered disability savings plan (RDSP), plus any repaid UCCB/RDSP amounts. For example, if you work full-time and earn $80,000 a year and your spouse earns $10,100 from a part-time job, you wouldn’t be eligible.

In addition, you must:

• Be a Canadian resident and have filed an income tax return in the previous year.
• Not have dental coverage through your employer or your spouse’s employer or pension benefit (if you have benefits elsewhere and choose to “opt out,” you’re still not eligible for CDCP).
• Not have independent dental coverage from an insurance company.

Misconception #2: All dental professionals participate in the new dental care plan in Canada

Participation in CDCP is entirely voluntary. The plan is available to dentists, denturists, dental hygienists and dental specialists, who can either sign up for the Canadian Dental Care Plan or submit claims on a claim-by-claim basis. If you’re eligible for CDCP, check with your dental care practitioner before you have any work done. If they haven’t signed on, the cost may not be covered.

Misconception #3: Enrollment is automatic

To get CDCP coverage, you must apply and meet the requirements every year. You must wait to be approved before getting any kind of treatment. Otherwise, it won’t be covered. This can take some time — up to three months, according to the Canadian Dental Association.² You can apply online on the Canadian Dental Care Plan website or by phone if you can’t apply online. You’ll need the following information to apply:

• Social insurance number
• Full name, date of birth and home and mailing address
• List of any dental coverage you have through government social programs

Misconception #4: All dental services are covered

The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers a range of preventive, basic and major services, such as those listed below. Some services require you to check with the government first before getting treatment (pre-authorization) and some are subject to frequency limitations. In all cases, the service must be recommended as necessary by a dental professional who participates in the CDCP. For details on coverage, refer to the CDCP Dental Benefits Guide.

• Cleaning, polishing, fluoride treatments and other preventative services
• Diagnostic services, like exams and x-rays
• Fillings and other restorative treatments
• Endodontic treatment, such as root canal
• Full and partial dentures
• Periodontal services
• Oral surgery, including extractions

Misconception #5: The CDCP covers 100% of costs

The CDCP may not fully cover your cost of treatment. You may have to pay additional charges if:

• The established CDCP dental fees are less than the actual fees charged by your provider. For example, your dentist might charge $150 for a filling while the CDCP fee is $130. You’d need to pay the $20 difference out of your own pocket.
• You agree to services that the CDCP doesn’t cover.
• Your adjusted family income is more than $70,000 (in 2024). This is known as a co-payment.

Understanding dental health coverage co-payments

How CDCP compares with CoverMe health and dental plans

Take care of your teeth and gums!

Good oral care can play a key role in overall physical health, and the CDCP is a great place to start. For the most current information, visit Canada.ca. For additional coverage, tailored to fit your needs, remember to take your time and compare options so you can make an informed decision.

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Footnote:

^{1. Government of Canada. Canadian Dental Care Plan. Aug. 21, 2024.}

^{2. Canadian Dental Association. “Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).” May 30, 2024.}

Disclaimer:

_{Individual circumstances may vary. You may wish to contact one of Manulife's licensed insurance advisors or your licensed insurance agent if you need advice about your insurance needs.}