The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP), part of the government’s efforts to make oral healthcare accessible, has undergone significant updates to address the needs of Canadians without private dental insurance. Traditionally, dental care was not included in public health coverage, leaving many families, especially those with low and middle incomes, struggling to afford essential services such as cleanings, checkups, and more complex procedures like root canals or fillings.
The CDCP initially targeted younger children in lower-income families but has since broadened its scope. By June 2024, the plan expanded to include children up to 18 years of age. The program aims to provide universal coverage to all eligible Canadians by 2025.
Contents
CDCP Expansion and Key Updates
Starting June 27, 2024, the Canada Dental Care Plan extended its coverage to benefit a larger demographic, including children under 18. Below are the key changes implemented:
| Category | Previous Coverage | Updated Coverage (June 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Age of Children Covered | Under 12 years | Under 18 years |
| Private Dental Insurance | Not required | Not required |
| Family Income Threshold | Below $90,000 | No change |
| Full Coverage Target Date | N/A | 2025 (target for all eligible) |
This gradual rollout ensures immediate assistance for the most vulnerable groups, including seniors and children, before covering all qualifying Canadians by 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for CDCP
To benefit from the Canada Dental Care Plan, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Must not have private dental insurance provided by an employer or any other source.
- Family income must be below $90,000 annually.
- Individuals must have filed their tax returns for the previous year.
- Residency in Canada for tax purposes is necessary, verified through eligible residency codes on the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Notice of Assessment.
Residency Codes for Eligibility
Eligible Temporary Residents: Codes 0, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12
Ineligible Residents: Codes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 11, 13, 15
Phased Implementation of CDCP
The rollout of the CDCP follows a phased approach, focusing on groups most in need of dental care:
| Phase | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| First Phase | December 2023 | Seniors aged 65 and above became eligible. |
| Second Phase | June 2024 | Children under 18 and adults with disabilities were included. |
| Full Implementation | 2025 | Universal coverage for all qualifying Canadians. |
Income-Based Coverage and Co-Payments
The financial support provided under the CDCP depends on household income. Here’s how the benefits are structured:
| Income Range | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Less than $70,000 | Full coverage for most dental services. |
| Between $70,000 and $89,999 | Partial coverage, with some out-of-pocket expenses. |
| Above $90,000 | Not eligible for the CDCP. |
How CDCP Operates
Participants enrolled in the Canada Dental Care Plan receive:
- A member card to access benefits.
- A specified coverage start date.
- Information about the services included under the plan.
Starting from July 8, 2024, participating dental providers can directly bill Sun Life Financial for services, eliminating the need for beneficiaries to pay upfront and wait for reimbursements.
Exclusions from CDCP
While the CDCP covers many essential dental services, it excludes:
- Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers.
- Elective surgeries and high-cost materials such as premium crowns or implants.
Patients may need to pay out-of-pocket for these services.
Impact on Newcomers and Low-Income Workers
The CDCP plays a critical role for newcomers, immigrants, and part-time workers who often lack dental coverage. A Statistics Canada report highlights the significant number of immigrants and temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in part-time jobs without dental insurance.
With dental costs ranging between $100 and $2,000, many low-income individuals struggle to afford even basic care. The CDCP aims to reduce this financial burden, providing essential support.
| Procedure | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $100 – $200 |
| Filling | $150 – $300 |
| Root Canal | $500 – $1,000 |
| Dental Crown (Cap) | $800 – $2,000 |
FAQs
1. What is the income threshold for eligibility under the CDCP?
Families with an annual income below $90,000 qualify for the plan.
2. Can temporary residents apply for the CDCP?
Yes, temporary residents with eligible residency codes can benefit from the program.
3. When will the CDCP provide universal coverage?
The plan is expected to cover all eligible Canadians by 2025.
4. Does the CDCP cover cosmetic dental procedures?
No, cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers are not included.
5. How do providers bill under the CDCP?
Starting from July 8, 2024, dental providers can directly bill Sun Life Financial for services rendered to eligible patients.
The Canada Dental Care Plan marks a significant step towards accessible oral healthcare, helping Canadians maintain better dental health without financial strain.
