The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) helps eligible Canadian residents pay for part of the cost of oral health care. It is not the same as private dental insurance, and it does not necessarily make every service free. Understanding eligibility, co-payments, covered services and possible preauthorization can make your first appointment much easier.
Who may qualify for the CDCP?
According to the Government of Canada, applicants must meet all four requirements:
- You do not have access to private dental insurance or coverage, including through work, a pension, a family member, a professional or student organization, or a privately purchased plan.
- You and your spouse or common-law partner, if applicable, filed the required Canadian tax returns so family income can be assessed.
- Your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000.
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
Access to certain provincial, territorial or federal social dental programs may still be compatible with CDCP eligibility. The programs may coordinate benefits to avoid duplicate payment.
Does the CDCP cover 100% of dental costs?
Not always. The CDCP uses its own established fees. Depending on adjusted family net income, the plan may require a co-payment—the percentage of the CDCP fee paid by the patient. A patient may also be responsible for services that are not covered, services beyond frequency limits, or other charges allowed under the program.
| Adjusted family net income | Patient co-payment of CDCP fees | CDCP portion of established fees |
|---|---|---|
| Below $70,000 | 0% | 100% |
| $70,000–$79,999 | 40% | 60% |
| $80,000–$89,999 | 60% | 40% |
These percentages apply to CDCP-established fees for eligible services. They do not by themselves confirm that a particular procedure is covered or that the final patient balance will be zero.
What dental services may be covered?
Coverage depends on CDCP rules, frequency limits and clinical need. Some services may require preauthorization. Categories listed by the Government of Canada include:
- Diagnostic and preventive care, such as examinations, X-rays, scaling, fluoride and sealants
- Basic restorative services, including eligible fillings
- Certain root canal and gum treatments
- Certain dentures and related services
- Eligible oral surgery services, including some extractions
- Other services when program requirements and any preauthorization conditions are met
How to prepare for your first CDCP appointment
- Confirm that your coverage has started. Approval to join the program does not always mean services are immediately active.
- Call the clinic and say that you are a CDCP member when booking.
- Have your CDCP member information and identification available.
- Ask the clinic to explain the proposed treatment, expected CDCP payment, your co-payment and any non-covered amount before treatment begins.
- Remember that some services require preauthorization. Approval should be received before those services are provided.
How Maple Ridge Dental Centre handles CDCP patients
Maple Ridge Dental Centre currently welcomes new patients enrolled in the CDCP. At the time this guide was prepared, the clinic stated that it accepts the CDCP-established fee for eligible covered services and does not charge patients the difference between its regular fee and the CDCP-established fee. Patients remain responsible for any applicable CDCP co-payment and for services or amounts not covered by the plan. Confirm this policy with the clinic when booking because program and clinic policies can change.
Frequently asked questions
Can the dental clinic decide whether I qualify?
No. The Government of Canada determines eligibility. The clinic can verify active coverage and help explain how the plan may apply to a proposed treatment.
Is every dental procedure covered?
No. Coverage depends on the service, frequency limits, clinical criteria and whether preauthorization is required. Ask for an estimate before treatment.
Do I need to renew my CDCP coverage?
Eligibility must be confirmed according to the government’s renewal process. Check your official correspondence and Canada.ca for current renewal dates and instructions.
Can I still have an out-of-pocket cost?
Yes. You may owe a co-payment, the cost of a non-covered service, or another amount not payable under CDCP rules. Request a written explanation of expected costs before treatment.
CDCP information can change. Check Canada.ca for current eligibility, coverage and renewal rules. This article is general information and is not a guarantee of eligibility or payment.
