The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a new federal program launched in 2023 to help eligible Canadians cover the cost of essential dental care. From check-ups and cleanings to fillings and other common treatments, the CDCP is designed to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and make dental care more accessible for families across the country.
At Garden Oaks Dental Centre in Winnipeg, we’re proud to be a participating provider. If you’ve been searching for the Canadian dental care plan in Winnipeg, our team is here to help you understand your coverage and make the process simple. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on your oral health with confidence.
What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The CDCP is a federal program designed to make dental care more affordable. It is income-based and family-oriented, meaning it helps those who might otherwise struggle to pay for dental visits. The plan covers a wide range of common dental services.
For example, it helps pay for preventive exams and cleanings, X-rays, fillings, root canals, and even crowns or dentures when needed. (Orthodontic care like braces is not covered yet, but may be added in 2025 under certain conditions.)
By spreading the cost between the government and the patient, the CDCP ensures financial constraints don’t block you or your loved ones from keeping your teeth healthy.
Who is Eligible for the CDCP?
To qualify, you must meet all official requirements:
- No Other Dental Coverage: You cannot already be covered by another dental insurance plan (for example, through work, your spouse’s job, or a private plan). The CDCP is only for Canadians without existing dental benefits.
- Canadian Tax Filer: You (and your spouse/common-law partner, if any) must have filed Canadian tax returns for the previous year. This lets the government confirm your household income.
- Income Under $90,000: Your adjusted family net income must be below $90,000. (This is roughly your combined family income with certain adjustments.)
- Resident for Tax Purposes: You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible. The program is opening in phases based on age and status. Currently, applications are open now for children under 18, adults 18–34, adults 55 and over, and adults 35–54 with a Disability Tax Credit certificate.
What Dental Services are Covered?
Dental clinics who accept the Canadian dental care plans near you provide a broad range of treatments, including preventive services and those considered medically necessary. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Preventive and Diagnostic Care: Routine exams, check-ups, X-rays, teeth cleanings (scaling), fluoride treatments, and sealants.
- Basic Restorative Care: Tooth-colored fillings (temporary and permanent), treatment of cavities, and root canal therapy when needed.
- Major Restorative Care: Crowns, bridges, and dentures (new, replacements, or repairs) are covered with pre-authorization as required.
- Surgery and Anesthesia: Simple tooth extractions, minor oral surgeries (e.g., removing roots or cysts), and sedation or anesthesia for procedures are included.
In short, the plan helps pay for most of the treatments you’d get from a general dentist to keep your mouth healthy. The government provides a fee schedule (set rates) for these services.
You may still pay a portion of the cost depending on your income level, which is known as a co-payment. The table below outlines what you might be responsible for:
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Percentage Covered by CDCP | Your Co-Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% | $0 |
| $70,000–$79,999 | 60% | 40% |
| $80,000–$89,999 | 40% | 60% |
| $90,000 or more | Not Eligible | Not Covered |
How to Apply for the CDCP
Applying is simple and free. Follow these steps:
- Confirm your eligibility based on income and insurance status.
- Apply online at the Government of Canada website or over the phone.
- When you’re accepted, you’ll receive your CDCP coverage information, which you can begin to access at network dental offices.
At Garden Oaks Dental Centre, we’re happy to help if you have questions about applying. Our staff can explain each step and help ensure you have what you need for the application.
We are Here to Support CDCP Patients
At Garden Oaks Dental Centre, we know it can feel a little overwhelming navigating new programs. Our Winnipeg team is here to help you every step of the way. We welcome CDCP patients and will handle the billing directly with the plan (managed by Sun Life on behalf of the government), so you don’t have to pay upfront for covered services.
Simply bring your approval letter or member card to your visit. We’ll verify your coverage, help with any forms, and explain any co-payment you may owe.
We also make booking easy: you can call us or request an appointment online and mention the CDCP. No referral is needed. We offer flexible hours (including weekends) to fit your schedule.
Our friendly dentists and hygienists treat patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and we focus on comfort and care. By choosing Garden Oaks, you get personalized attention and the convenience of in-house support. We will take care of the paperwork and coordination so you can relax and focus on getting the dental care you need.
FAQs
Can I apply for the CDCP online?
Yes, you can apply for the CDCP directly through the Government of Canada website. You’ll need to provide some basic information about your income and eligibility. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive details about your dental coverage.
How do I know if my treatment is covered by the CDCP?
At Garden Oaks Dental Centre, we can help you understand which services are included under the CDCP. Coverage depends on your eligibility and household income. You can also check the full list of covered treatments on the official government website.
Are dental treatments like crowns or braces covered under the CDCP?
The CDCP mainly covers preventive and routine care like exams, cleanings, and fillings. Some other treatments, such as crowns or braces, might be partially covered depending on the case. Our team can review your specific treatment and let you know what’s included.
Can I use the CDCP for my entire family’s dental needs?
Yes, family members, including children and seniors, can benefit from the CDCP if they meet the eligibility criteria. Each person will have their own coverage based on their needs and income level.
What should I bring to my first CDCP-covered appointment?
For your first visit, bring a valid ID and any documents related to your CDCP approval. This will help us confirm your coverage and make the process easier. If you’re unsure what to bring, just give us a call before your appointment.