Canadian Dental Care Plan Coverage Overview
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is the Government of Canada’s federal dental insurance programme providing coverage to eligible Canadians without private dental insurance. Administered by Sun Life Financial on behalf of the federal government, CDCP covers a defined list of dental services based on the patient’s age, income and specific oral health needs.
Understanding what the CDCP covers is essential for both patients making treatment decisions and dental practices advising patients and managing billing workflows. Coverage varies by procedure category, patient age group and income level.
EligibilityWho is Eligible for CDCP?
- Children under 18 with adjusted family net income below $90,000 and no private dental insurance
- Adults aged 65+ (seniors) with adjusted family net income below $90,000 and no private dental insurance
- Persons with disabilities (disability tax credit recipients) with qualifying income and no private dental insurance
- Working-age adults 18–64 with qualifying income and no private dental insurance (phased rollout, fully expanded in 2025)
CDCP eligibility is income-tested. Patients with adjusted family net income below $70,000 receive full coverage; those between $70,000–$90,000 pay co-payments on a sliding scale.
Covered ServicesDental Procedures Covered Under CDCP
| Treatment Category | Coverage Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oral Examinations | Covered | Comprehensive and recall exams |
| Dental X-rays | Covered | Bitewing, periapical, panoramic |
| Scaling & Cleaning | Covered | Prophylaxis and periodontal scaling |
| Fluoride Treatment | Covered | Children and eligible adults |
| Pit & Fissure Sealants | Covered | Children and young adults |
| Fillings (Restorations) | Covered | Composite and amalgam |
| Extractions | Covered | Simple and surgical extractions |
| Root Canal Treatment | Covered | Anterior teeth; posterior subject to criteria |
| Dentures (Full & Partial) | Covered | Eligible patients; frequency limitations apply |
| Dental Implants | Limited | Limited coverage; criteria apply |
| Orthodontics (braces) | Limited | Medically necessary cases only |
| Cosmetic Procedures | Not Covered | Teeth whitening, veneers for cosmetic purposes |
Important: CDCP coverage details, fee schedules and eligibility criteria are subject to change by the Government of Canada. Always verify current coverage directly with Sun Life Financial (the plan administrator) at sunlife.com or by calling the CDCP information line. This page provides general informational context only.
CDCP for Patients — How It Works
Check Eligibility
Confirm eligibility based on income, age and insurance status at canada.ca/dental or by calling 1-833-537-4342.
Receive CDCP Welcome Package
Eligible Canadians receive a welcome letter from Sun Life Financial with their CDCP member ID and benefit details.
Find a CDCP-Registered Dentist
Search for registered dental providers through Sun Life’s provider directory. Not all dentists participate in CDCP.
Book & Attend Appointment
Bring your CDCP member ID to the appointment. The dentist verifies eligibility and submits claims directly to Sun Life.