Federal Dental Coverage Program
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) at Miller Dental Care
Helping you navigate CDCP eligibility, coverage, and the simple steps to use your benefits — with confidence.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a national dental coverage program administered by the Federal Government of Canada through Health Canada and Service Canada. Its goal is to improve access to essential oral health services for Canadians who don't have private dental insurance and meet the CDCP eligibility requirements.
The primary goal of the CDCP is to make dental care more affordable, accessible, and easier to maintain. By offering government-supported dental benefits, the program helps eligible Canadians receive preventive care, checkups, cleanings, fillings, and other standard dental services, often at a significantly reduced cost.
Once you apply for the CDCP and your dental coverage is approved, you can use your benefits at participating dental clinics, including Miller Dental Care. For patients approved for 100% CDCP coverage, this often means no out-of-pocket costs at Miller Dental Care, as our clinic typically does not charge the co-pay created by the difference between the CDCP Fee Guide and the Ontario Dental Association Fee Guide.
CDCP Dental Care at Miller Dental Care
In this video, Dr. Bob MacInnis explains how the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) works and what patients can expect when receiving care through the program at Miller Dental Care in Orillia. He walks through what's included in CDCP exams and X-rays, how treatment options are reviewed, and how our clinic focuses on making CDCP dental care accessible, comfortable, and affordable.
Who Qualifies for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
To qualify for the CDCP, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements set by the Government of Canada. These criteria determine whether you can access CDCP dental benefits and how much of your care may be covered.
Income Requirements
Eligibility is based on your adjusted family net income, confirmed through income verification with the Canada Revenue Agency.
Canadian Residency
To be eligible, you must be a Canadian resident with valid government identification. The CDCP is intended for Canadians who need additional support accessing dental care.
Age Categories
The CDCP is now open to Canadians of all ages, including:
- Children (Under 18)
- Adults (18 – 64)
- Seniors (65+)
Insurance Status
To qualify, you must not have access to any private dental insurance. This includes dental coverage offered through:
- —Employment benefits (yours or a family member's)
- —Health and wellness accounts
- —Professional or student organizations
- —Pension benefits (including federal, provincial, or territorial government employer pension plans)
- —Privately purchased dental insurance or group plans
Even if you choose not to enroll, pay a premium, or do not use the coverage, you are still not eligible for CDCP if you have access to it.
Exception for Retired Canadians
You may still qualify for the CDCP if you are retired, opted out of pension-related dental benefits before December 11, 2023, and cannot opt back in under your pension plan's rules. If your private dental coverage has ended or you cancelled it, you may become eligible once that coverage is no longer active.
Official Eligibility Details
For the most accurate, up-to-date information, please refer to the Government of Canada's official CDCP eligibility requirements.
What the Canadian Dental Care Plan Covers at Miller Dental Care
The CDCP helps reduce the cost of many common dental services. Coverage is based on your income band and the official CDCP fee guide, so the amount covered can vary. Once your application is approved, you'll receive details about your level of coverage.
Preventative Care
- Routine dental cleanings
- Scaling and polishing
- Fluoride treatments
- Oral hygiene instruction
These services help protect your oral health and reduce the risk of dental issues over time.
Basic Restorative Care
- Fillings
- Simple extractions
- Minor restorative treatments
These services support healthy teeth and address common dental concerns.
Diagnostic Services
- Dental exams
- Digital X-rays
- Assessments and consultations
These visits help identify concerns early and create a personalized treatment plan.
Coverage depends on your approved income level and the federal fee guide. Some services may be fully covered, partially covered, or require a co-payment. Miller Dental Care will always outline costs and coverage before starting any treatment.
How to Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Applying for the CDCP is a straightforward process completed directly through the Government of Canada. You can apply online, by phone, or by mail.
Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements
Before starting your application, confirm you are a Canadian resident with no private dental insurance, meet the CDCP income thresholds, and have filed your most recent tax return. Full eligibility details are on the Government of Canada website.
Apply online, by phone, or by mail
The easiest way is through the Government of Canada's online portal. You'll provide personal information, proof of Canadian residency, confirmation of insurance status, and consent for income verification. Or call 1-833-537-4342.
Wait for your application to be reviewed
The government will review your eligibility, income level, and coverage approval. You can track your CDCP application status online. Processing times vary.
Receive your benefit confirmation and book your visit
If approved, you'll receive your CDCP start date, coverage level details, and information from Sun Life — the company that administers CDCP claims and billing. Call us or book online and bring your card.
How to Check Your CDCP Application Status
Check Your Status Online
Visit the Government of Canada's CDCP application status page and sign in using your personal information. This is the fastest and most accurate way to see updates.
When to Contact Service Canada
If you're unable to access the online status tool or you notice a delay beyond the normal processing time, you can contact Service Canada for support. They can help with sign-in issues, missing documents, application delays, or eligibility questions.
Using Your Canadian Dental Care Plan at Miller Dental Care
Once your CDCP coverage is active, getting started at Miller Dental Care is simple. Our team is here to help you understand your benefits and make the process as smooth as possible.
How to Book an Appointment
You can schedule a visit using whichever option works best for you. Just let us know you are a CDCP patient when booking.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Your CDCP coverage card (issued by Sun Life)
- Any confirmation letters or approval paperwork you received
- A piece of government-issued ID
How Our Team Supports CDCP Patients
- Confirm your CDCP coverage before treatment
- Review your coverage level and any possible co-payments
- Explain recommended treatments in clear, easy-to-understand language
- Help you plan your visits based on your CDCP benefits
We're here to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident in your care.
Canadian Dental Care Plan Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to use your Canadian Dental Care Benefits?
Our team is here to help you make the most of your CDCP coverage. We'll guide you through each step and ensure you feel informed and supported.