To qualify for the CDCP, your **adjusted family net income must be under $90,000 CAD**. Additionally, you must not have access to any other form of dental insurance (such as an employer-sponsored plan, pension benefit plan, or private insurance).
CDCP Eligibility Requirements
To register for the CDCP, you must meet all of the following parameters:
- Canadian Residency: Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes. Both citizens and permanent residents, as well as temporary residents who file tax returns, can qualify.
- Tax Filing: Have filed your Canadian tax return for the previous calendar year. CRA checks your tax return to verify your adjusted family net income.
- No Dental Insurance: You must not have access to private dental insurance, student plans, or employee health benefits, even if you choose not to opt into them.
Income Brackets & Co-payment Percentages
The government covers the cost of dental services based on your family income. You may have to pay a co-payment (an out-of-pocket share) if your income exceeds $70,000 CAD:
| Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) | Government Share Covered | Your Co-payment Share |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 CAD | 100% of CDCP fees covered | 0% co-payment |
| $70,000 to $79,999 CAD | 60% of CDCP fees covered | 40% co-payment |
| $80,000 to $89,999 CAD | 40% of CDCP fees covered | 60% co-payment |
| $90,000 CAD or more | 0% covered (Ineligible) | 100% (Not eligible for plan) |
Covered Dental Services
The CDCP covers standard preventive, basic, and major dental care procedures, although some services require pre-authorization:
- Preventive Services: Cleaning (scaling), polishing, examinations, and x-rays.
- Basic Services: Fillings, root canal treatments, and tooth extractions.
- Major Services: Crowns, dentures, and deep scaling (require pre-approval from the plan administrator, Sun Life).
- Dental provider check: Make sure your dentist participates in the CDCP program before booking, as providers must agree to bill Sun Life directly.
This guide compiles official Health Canada guidelines and CDCP eligibility rules sourced directly from:
• Health Canada Canadian Dental Care Plan Overview: canada.ca/dental-plan
• Health Canada CDCP covered dental services: canada.ca/dental-covered-services