Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP): Eligibility and How to Apply

The is a federal programme that helps eligible Canadians access dental care without private insurance. To qualify, you need to be a Canadian tax resident with no access to private dental coverage and an adjusted family net income under $90,000. As of May 2025, the plan is open to eligible Canadians of all ages. If you think you might qualify, here's exactly what you need to know before applying.

The is a federal dental benefit programme administered by Health Canada and Sun Life. It launched in December 2023 with the goal of reducing financial barriers to dental care for Canadians who fall through the gap between private insurance and existing government programmes.

It covers a broad range of essential dental services, with costs covered at 40%, 60%, or 100% depending on your household income. For a full breakdown of what's included, see Denzy's guide on .

Do You Qualify For the CDCP?

To be eligible for CDCP coverage, you must meet all four of the following criteria:

• You have no access to private dental insurance (having dental coverage through a government social programme does not disqualify you)
• You file a Canadian tax return
• You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• Your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000

All four conditions must be met. If you have access to private dental insurance through an employer or benefit plan, you are not eligible, regardless of your income.

Who Counts as a Dependant Under the CDCP?

Your application can include eligible dependants, which generally means children under 18 who live with you and are listed on your tax return. Dependants must also meet the residency and insurance conditions. If you're unsure whether a family member qualifies, Service Canada can clarify when you call to apply.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply?

Gathering everything before you start will speed up the process. Here's what you'll need:

Personal and household information

• Social Insurance Numbers for yourself, your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable), and any dependants
• Full names, dates of birth, and home and mailing addresses for all applicants

Tax and insurance documents

• Your most recent notice of assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency
• A list of any dental coverage received through government social programmes, if applicable

How to Apply For the CDCP

There are four ways to submit your application:

• Online: The quickest option for most people. Apply through the Government of Canada's official CDCP page at canada.ca.
• By phone: Call Service Canada at 1-833-537-4342 if you can't apply online or prefer to speak with someone directly.
• With assistance: You can apply with the help of a trusted person or have a legal delegate apply on your behalf.
• In person or by mail: Some local government offices accept applications this way, though it's not the standard route and availability varies by location.

What Happens After You Apply?

Processing times vary, but it typically takes several weeks to receive a decision. You can check your application status at any time through the at canada.ca or by calling Service Canada.

Once approved, you'll receive a letter confirming three things: your CDCP member ID, your co-payment level, and your coverage start date. Shortly after, Sun Life will send a welcome package with your CDCP card and full coverage details.

You cannot book a CDCP-covered dental appointment until your coverage start date arrives.

Finding a Dentist Who Accepts the CDCP

Not all dentists in Canada have opted into the CDCP, so it's worth confirming before you book. Denzy makes this straightforward. Once your coverage is confirmed, you can and book online without the phone tag. at canada.ca or by calling Service Canada.

If you're ready to get started now, to see how the matching process works.