Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) 2025: Everything You Need to Know / Régime canadien de soins dentaires (RCSD) 2025 : tout ce que vous devez savoir

Last Updated on May 26, 2025

For many Canadians, visiting the dentist has long been a luxury rather than a basic healthcare necessity. High out-of-pocket costs and the lack of publicly funded dental care have left millions avoiding checkups, delaying treatments, or living with pain. That’s finally starting to change.

With the rollout of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), the federal government is taking a major step toward ensuring that dental care is no longer a privilege—it’s a right.

Whether you’re a senior on a fixed income, a parent trying to prioritize your child’s health, or someone who simply doesn’t have dental coverage through work, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the CDCP in 2025—from eligibility to coverage details, how to apply, and what to expect when you visit the dentist. Let’s dive in.

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a new federal program introduced to help uninsured Canadians access essential dental care. Officially launched in 2024 and expanding throughout 2025, it aims to bridge the longstanding gap in public dental coverage, especially for low- and middle-income families who may not be able to afford private dental insurance.

Unlike provincial dental programs that are often limited to specific groups (such as children or those on social assistance), the CDCP is national in scope and designed to eventually cover millions of Canadians.

The goal is simple: reduce financial barriers to oral health care, prevent more serious medical issues down the line, and ensure no Canadian skips the dentist due to cost.

Key Differences:

• Funded by: Federal Government (administered by Health Canada)
• Target group: Canadians without private dental insurance
• Type of coverage: Preventive, diagnostic, restorative, and surgical services

This is arguably the most significant investment in public dental care in Canada’s history.

Who is Eligible for CDCP?

In Canada, many people go without dental care not because they don’t need it, but because it’s too expensive and not covered by provincial health plans. Recognizing this, the federal government built the CDCP with specific eligibility criteria to target people most in need. Your eligibility is determined based on a few simple but crucial factors: your residency status, your household’s adjusted net income, and whether or not you currently have private dental insurance through an employer, pension, or other source.

These measures ensure that support is directed toward the people who need it most while avoiding duplication with existing private coverage. Additionally, the plan is being rolled out in phases throughout 2025 to prioritize seniors, children, and those with disabilities first, before expanding to the general adult population. Here’s how it works:

To qualify, you must:

• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• Have no access to private dental insurance (including through an employer or pension plan)
• Have an annual adjusted family net income of less than $90,000

Let’s break that down further.

Income-Based Coverage Tiers:

Your eligibility is assessed based on your latest income tax return, so make sure your taxes are up to date when you apply.

When to Apply and Who is Being Prioritized in 2025?

Because the program is being rolled out in stages, not everyone will be able to apply at the same time. This phased approach helps ensure that dental providers aren’t overwhelmed with demand and that the most vulnerable Canadians get access first. Priority groups were selected based on factors like age, fixed income status, and overall health vulnerability. The rollout schedule also provides enough time to build up a robust network of participating dental providers before opening access to the broader population. 

Here’s a rollout timeline in 2025:

• Seniors aged 65 and up – already eligible and open
• Children under 18 – Now open
• Disability Tax Credit (DTC) holders – Now open
• All remaining eligible adults – full rollout expected by the end of 2025

How to Apply for the CDCP

Applying to the CDCP is relatively straightforward—if you’re eligible, you’ll be able to apply online or by phone through Service Canada.

Seniors aged 65 and older were the first group invited to apply through Service Canada in late 2023. As additional groups become eligible in 2025, applications will open through a secure online portal that verifies your income and residency information using CRA data. Be prepared to provide basic identification, your SIN number, and details about your dental insurance status.

1. Application Process: Online

1. Confirm eligibility (no private insurance, income under $90,000)
2. Visit Canada.ca/dental to start the application
3. Sign in using your CRA My Account or GCKey
4. Provide required information (e.g., SIN, date of birth, address)
5. Receive confirmation of enrollment and coverage start date

Once approved, you’ll receive a welcome package with coverage details and how to find a participating dentist.

2. Application Process: By Phone

You may apply also via phone call through Service Canada (for those without internet access).

Documents Needed:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Latest tax return info (for income verification)
• Proof of no private insurance

Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a welcome package including your CDCP ID number or card, coverage start date, and instructions for booking your first appointment.

What Does the CDCP Cover?

The CDCP isn’t just a temporary or limited benefit—it’s designed to provide a broad range of essential oral health services so Canadians can get the preventive and restorative care they need to live healthy lives. Coverage includes everything from routine check-ups to major procedures like crowns and root canals, with the goal of addressing dental needs at all stages of life. While the full extent of services will be based on the clinical needs of each patient and adherence to a fee schedule, the federal government has laid out a clear list of services that will be covered under the plan. This helps reduce confusion and ensure that both patients and dental providers are on the same page.

Covered Services Include:

• Preventive Care: Exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and x-rays
• Diagnostic Services: Assessments and tests to evaluate oral health
• Restorative Services: Fillings, crowns, and root canals
• Surgical Services: Tooth extractions, minor oral surgery
• Endodontic and Periodontal Services: Treatment of gums and root structures
• Prosthodontic Services: Dentures (partial and complete)
• Emergency Dental Care: Urgent care for pain or infection

The plan is designed to cover medically necessary dental work, not cosmetic procedures.

What’s Not Covered (or Covered in Limited Circumstances):

• Cosmetic dentistry: teeth whitening, veneers
• Orthodontics: braces, unless medically required
• Sedation: limited coverage depending on clinical need

Some services may require pre-authorization or predetermination, especially for high-cost procedures like crowns or dentures.It’s important to note that coverage frequency limits apply. For example, you might only be eligible for one cleaning every 9 to 12 months.

How to Find a CDCP Dental Provider

Once you’re approved, it’s time to visit the dentist—but not just any dental clinic will do. The CDCP only works with participating dental providers.

Only providers registered with the CDCP can offer covered services under the plan. The government is working closely with provincial dental associations to ensure widespread participation. As more dentists opt in, a searchable directory will be made available so patients can find local providers who accept CDCP coverage.

Steps to Use Your Coverage:

1. Find a participating dentist
   • Ask your current dentist if they plan to register for CDCP
   • Use the online provider directory at Canada.ca/dental (once launched)
   • Call Service Canada for help locating participating clinics
2. Present your CDCP ID at the appointment
3. Confirm what’s covered before the treatment
4. Pay your co-pay (if applicable) based on your income level

Many dentists will offer direct billing, meaning you won’t have to pay upfront. However, some may not yet be enrolled in the CDCP—especially during the early phases—so call ahead.

If your dentist isn’t part of the program, you can either request reimbursement or switch to a participating provider.

How Much CDCP Cost: Cost Sharing and Co-Payments

One of the most appealing aspects of the CDCP is its income-based cost-sharing structure. Unlike private insurance with hefty premiums and deductibles, the CDCP is designed to scale your out-of-pocket costs based on your ability to pay. For Canadians with an adjusted family net income under $70,000, the plan will cover 100% of eligible dental costs.

As your income increases, so does your co-payment, helping to keep the program sustainable while still providing meaningful coverage. Here’s how the cost-sharing works:

It’s also important to note that dental providers are not required to charge only what CDCP reimburses—some may bill you for the difference if their fees exceed the CDCP fee guide. Always check ahead with your provider.

Example:

A basic filling that costs $150:

• If your family income is $65,000: you pay $0
• If it’s $75,000: you pay $60
• If it’s $85,000: you pay $90

Keep in mind: if your dentist charges more than the CDCP fee schedule, you may also need to cover the difference.

CDCP vs Other Dental Coverage in Canada

You might be wondering how CDCP stacks up against other forms of dental coverage.

Provincial Programs vs CDCP:

CDCP vs Private Insurance:

• CDCP: Income-based, limited to those with no private insurance
• Private Plans: Monthly premiums, often with higher limits and broader coverage (including orthodontics)

Important: You can’t use CDCP if you have private dental insurance. However, if you lose your insurance or retire, you can apply.

Benefits of the CDCP for Canadians

The CDCP is a game-changer for millions of Canadians who’ve put off dental visits due to cost. Here’s what it brings to the table:

• Affordability: Essential care for free or at a fraction of the price
• Access: Nationwide network of participating dentists
• Prevention: More Canadians can get regular checkups, reducing long-term health issues
• Equity: Support for those most in need—seniors, children, low-income households

Oral health isn’t separate from overall health—dental infections, gum disease, and untreated decay can lead to serious complications. The CDCP is a smart, preventative investment in public health.

Challenges and Criticisms

No government program is perfect, and the CDCP is already facing its share of criticism and growing pains.

Concerns Raised:

• Dentist participation: Some providers are opting out due to low government reimbursement rates
• Wait times: As more people become eligible, demand may outpace supply
• Coverage gaps: No full orthodontic care, cosmetic treatments excluded
• Administrative complexity: Questions around pre-approvals, claim delays, and billing errors

The federal government is working with provinces and dental associations to address these concerns—but expect some hiccups during the first few years.

Tips for Maximizing Your CDCP Benefits

Want to get the most out of your dental coverage? Here are some practical tips:

1. Book early: Dentists may be swamped as more people apply
2. Get a treatment estimate: Know your costs upfront, especially if you’re in a co-pay bracket
3. Confirm provider participation: Not every clinic has signed up
4. Use preventive care: Stay on top of cleanings and exams to avoid major procedures
5. Track your usage: Keep receipts and stay within your yearly service limits

The Future of Dental Care in Canada

The CDCP is just the beginning. Many advocates believe Canada is heading toward universal dental care, much like we already have for physician and hospital services.

The next steps may include:

• Expanded services (e.g., orthodontics, sedation dentistry)
• Increased provider participation
• Integrated benefits with provincial healthcare systems
• Dental pharmacare—covering medications related to oral care

Public sentiment is strong: many Canadians support federal investment in oral health. Time will tell how the plan evolves—but the foundation has been laid.

More FAQs About CDCP

To help you better understand the OHIP, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

Conclusion: The Start of Something Big

The Canadian Dental Care Plan represents one of the biggest public health investments in decades, directly addressing a gap that has long plagued Canada’s healthcare system. If you or someone you know has been skipping dental appointments due to cost, this program could be a game-changer. With services rolling out across 2025 and eligibility gradually expanding, now is the time to check if you qualify and get prepared. Dental health isn’t just about a bright smile—it’s about preventing serious health issues down the line. The CDCP makes that care possible for millions of Canadians.

Visit Canada.ca/dental or contact Service Canada to apply.

Your teeth—and your wallet—will thank you.