The CDCP (Canadian Dental Care Program) is still new so some aspects of it confuses many people wanting to apply and use it. The formal open enrollment period is over but you can still apply. However, you can’t make appointments for dental services until you gain approval. Not all services are covered, so use this guide on determining whether you are eligible and the services you can use under the plan.
Eligibility Under CDCP
The CDCP began rolling out in phases in December 2023 with those at least 87 years old benefitting first. It gradually opened to children, the disabled, seniors 65 years old and older, and other vulnerable populations. The final phases in May opened the program up to those between 18 and 64 years old. This government program is unique because of its simple eligibility rules. There are only four and applying only takes minutes.📋 Eligibility Requirements:
- The applicant can’t access any dental insurance. This means they have no opportunity to take dental insurance through an employer or private insurance. It doesn’t cover those who voluntarily opt out of employer-provided dental insurance.
- The applicant must be a Canadian citizen. This rule exists because they must file tax forms and only citizens file Canadian taxes.
- The application must have filed Canadian 2024 taxes. This requirement relates to the next rule to establish household income.
- The household must have an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000 a year.
💡 Quick Tip: Applying for the CDCP is easy because it can be done online or by phone. Once you get your approval notice, you can call to make a dental appointment.
⚠️ Don’t Forget to Renew
Those who applied in May qualify for dental services through the CDCP as of June 1. Those previously approved must renew to continue to receive services. That includes filing your 2024 tax return and receiving a 2024 Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency. Failure to renew last spring results in a lack of access to dental services until renewal is completed.
🦷 What Is Covered for Adults?
Many dental services are covered under the CDCP including:Preventive Services
Like cleanings
Diagnostic Services
Like X-rays
Basic Services
Exams and fillings
Major Services
Like root canals
Sedation Services
For procedures
Orthodontics
Teeth straightening
🦷 What About Implants?
Dental Implants and smile restoration can be covered but most of those services require a preauthorization. The CDCP lists posts and post removal, crown repairs, crown installation, the cores and posts for crowns as covered services. However, only posts, post removal, and crown repairs don’t require a pre-authorization. The CDCP includes removable prosthodontic services in its services. These include complete dentures, temporary dentures and denture repairs. Overdentures and partial dentures require preauthorization.💬 Ready to Get Started?
The place to start with understanding the CDCP is by going here to learn about eligibility and here to learn about what is covered.
We are happy to help answer questions and guide you through the process.
CDCP FAQs
Is it too late to apply to the CDCP?
No, you can still apply online or by phone even though the May open-enrollment window has passed. You can’t access services until you are approved.
Why does the CDCP require my tax filings?
Tax filing for the previous year is required to prove your adjusted net household income qualifies you for the plan. That can change yearly so those renewing their CDCP plan must also file taxes.
What if I’m not a Canadian citizen?
You must have filed 2024 taxes to qualify for the CDCP so you must be a Canadian citizen to be eligible. There are other programs that help immigrant, refugee, and First Nation populations.
Does the CDCP cover all dental work?
No, the CDCP doesn’t cover every dental service. It covers many that are deemed necessary to maintain oral and physical health. Look at the website or ask your dentist for more information about coverage.