Understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2026

Dental care has historically been one of the most significant gaps in Canada's universal healthcare system. While Canadians enjoy publicly funded coverage for physician and hospital services, dental care has largely remained a private expense, leaving millions of Canadians — including many newcomers — unable to afford regular dental visits. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) represents a transformative step toward addressing this gap, providing dental coverage to eligible Canadian residents who do not have access to private dental insurance. If you are a newcomer to Canada, understanding the CDCP could help you and your family access affordable dental care as you build your new life here.

What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a federal government program designed to provide dental coverage to Canadian residents who do not have access to private dental insurance and meet specific income requirements. The program is administered by Health Canada and Sun Life, which serves as the plan administrator responsible for processing claims and managing the network of participating dental providers.

The CDCP was introduced in response to the reality that approximately one in three Canadians lacks dental insurance, and many others have coverage that is insufficient to meet their needs. Untreated dental problems can lead to serious health complications, including infections, chronic pain, heart disease, and difficulties eating and speaking. By making dental care more accessible, the CDCP aims to improve the overall health and well-being of Canadians.

You can find comprehensive information about the plan on the official CDCP page on Canada.ca. For newcomers who are navigating multiple government programs simultaneously, our Benefits Finder can help you identify all the benefits and programs you may be eligible for.

Eligibility Criteria for the CDCP

To be eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, you must meet all of the following criteria:

• Residency: You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes. This includes Canadian citizens, permanent residents, temporary residents (such as those with work or study permits who have filed a Canadian tax return), and Indigenous peoples.
• No access to dental insurance: You must not have access to dental coverage through an employer, a spouse or partner's employer, a pension, or any other private dental insurance plan. If you have some dental coverage but it does not cover all services, you may still be eligible for coverage of the services not included in your existing plan.
• Tax filing: You must have filed your Canadian income tax return for the previous year. This is important because eligibility is determined based on your adjusted family net income as reported on your tax return.
• Income threshold: Your adjusted family net income must be under $90,000 per year. The amount of coverage you receive depends on your income level, with lower-income families receiving more comprehensive benefits.

The income-based co-payment structure works as follows:

• Under $70,000: No co-payment required — you pay nothing for covered services
• $70,000 to $79,999: 40% co-payment — you pay 40% of the cost of covered services
• $80,000 to $89,999: 60% co-payment — you pay 60% of the cost of covered services

For more details on eligibility, visit the CDCP eligibility page. If you are a newcomer and have not yet filed a Canadian tax return, our Tax Return Guide can help you understand the process and ensure you meet this important requirement.

How to Apply for the CDCP

Applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan is a process that has been designed to be as straightforward as possible. Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:

• Step 1 — Check your eligibility: Before applying, confirm that you meet all the eligibility criteria outlined above. You can use the online eligibility tool on the CDCP application page to check your status.
• Step 2 — Gather your information: You will need your Social Insurance Number (SIN), date of birth, information about your current dental insurance status (if any), and details from your most recent tax return.
• Step 3 — Apply online or by phone: You can apply online through the Government of Canada website or by calling Service Canada at 1-833-537-4342. Online applications are processed faster.
• Step 4 — Receive your confirmation: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a welcome package from Sun Life that includes your member card and information about how to use your coverage.
• Step 5 — Find a participating dentist: Use the Sun Life provider directory to find a dentist near you who participates in the CDCP.

The application process typically takes several weeks to complete, so apply as soon as you are eligible to avoid delays in accessing dental care. If you need help navigating the application or understanding the paperwork involved, our Document Explainer tool can help clarify official government forms and correspondence.

What Services Does the CDCP Cover?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers a wide range of dental services that are essential for maintaining good oral health. The covered services are organized into several categories:

Preventive Services

• Oral examinations and assessments
• Professional teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing)
• Fluoride treatments
• Dental sealants (particularly for children)
• Diagnostic X-rays (bitewing and panoramic radiographs)

Restorative Services

• Fillings (amalgam and composite)
• Crowns and onlays
• Root canal therapy (endodontics)
• Dentures (complete and partial)
• Denture repair and relining

Surgical and Other Services

• Tooth extractions (simple and surgical)
• Periodontal (gum) treatments
• Emergency dental services for pain relief
• Oral surgery for medically necessary procedures

It is important to note that some services, such as cosmetic dentistry (teeth whitening, veneers), orthodontics (braces) for adults, and dental implants, are generally not covered under the CDCP. However, the plan is designed to cover the services that are most essential for maintaining oral health and preventing serious dental problems.

For a complete and up-to-date list of covered services, refer to the CDCP coverage details page.

Finding a Participating Dentist

One of the most important steps after enrolling in the CDCP is finding a dentist who participates in the plan. Not all dental offices accept CDCP coverage, so you will need to confirm that your dentist is part of the network before booking an appointment.

Here are several ways to find a participating dentist:

• Sun Life provider directory: The easiest way to find a participating dentist is to use the Sun Life online provider directory, which allows you to search by location, language, and specialty.
• Call your dentist: If you already have a dentist, call their office and ask if they accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Many dentists have opted into the program since its launch.
• Ask at settlement agencies: Local newcomer settlement organizations often maintain lists of healthcare providers, including dentists, who serve newcomers and accept government programs.
• Community health centers: Many community health centers across Canada offer dental services and are part of the CDCP network. These centers often provide services in multiple languages and are experienced in serving diverse communities.

When booking your appointment, let the dental office know that you are covered under the CDCP and provide your member number. The dental office will typically bill Sun Life directly for covered services, so you will only need to pay any applicable co-payment at the time of your visit.

Timeline of the CDCP Rollout

The Canadian Dental Care Plan has been rolled out in phases to manage the large number of eligible Canadians and ensure a smooth implementation. Here is a timeline of the major milestones:

• December 2023: The Canadian Dental Benefit, a predecessor interim program, provided direct payments to eligible families with children under 12 for dental care expenses.
• May 2024: CDCP applications opened for seniors aged 70 and older.
• June 2024: Eligibility expanded to include seniors aged 65 to 69.
• Summer 2024: Applications opened for persons with disabilities and children under 18.
• 2025: The plan was further expanded to include all remaining eligible Canadian residents under 65.
• 2026: The program is now fully operational and open to all eligible residents. The government continues to expand the network of participating providers and improve the application process.

As the program matures in 2026, the government has indicated that additional services may be added to the coverage list and that efforts to increase the number of participating dentists will continue. Staying informed about these updates will help you make the most of your dental care benefits.

Oral Health Tips for Newcomers

While the CDCP provides important coverage for dental services, maintaining good oral health starts with daily habits. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

• Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for at least two minutes each time.
• Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Choose water over sugary beverages whenever possible.
• Visit the dentist regularly: Even if you are not experiencing pain, regular dental checkups (every 6 to 12 months) are essential for catching problems early.
• Do not ignore dental pain: If you experience toothache, bleeding gums, or sensitivity, see a dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious and costly problems.
• Wear a mouthguard: If you or your children participate in contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can prevent dental injuries.

For more information on maintaining oral health, visit the Government of Canada oral health page. Good oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being, and the CDCP is here to help make dental care accessible and affordable for newcomers and all eligible Canadians.

If you are still settling into life in Canada and need help with other aspects of your transition, such as finding employment, our Resume Builder can help you create a professional Canadian-style resume, and our AI Chat Assistant is available to answer any questions about life in Canada.

The Canadian Dental Care Plan represents a significant investment in the health of Canadians, and as a newcomer, you should take full advantage of this program if you are eligible. Dental health is closely linked to overall physical health, self-confidence, and quality of life. By enrolling in the CDCP, maintaining good oral hygiene habits, and visiting a participating dentist regularly, you are taking an important step toward building a healthy and successful life in Canada.