What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan, often shortened to CDCP, is a federal program that helps cover the cost of dental care for eligible Canadian residents without access to private dental insurance. The plan is administered by Sun Life on behalf of Health Canada.

Rather than reimbursing patients directly, the CDCP pays participating dental providers for covered services. That’s why it matters whether your dentist has enrolled in the program.

Are You Eligible for the CDCP?

To qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, you generally need to meet all of the following:

You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
You do not have access to private dental insurance
Your adjusted family net income falls below the program threshold
You have filed your income tax return for the previous year

Eligibility rules and income thresholds are set by the federal government and can change from one benefit year to the next. For current criteria and to apply, visit the Government of Canada’s CDCP page or call Service Canada.

What Does the CDCP Cover?

Preventive care,

such as exams, cleanings, scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatment

Diagnostic services,

including X-rays and other assessments

Restorative care,

such as fillings

Endodontic treatment,

including root canals

Periodontal care,

for the treatment of gum disease

Removable prosthodontics,

such as dentures

Oral surgery,

including extractions

Some treatments require approval from Sun Life before they can proceed. For major work, we can submit a preauthorization on your behalf so you know what’s covered before treatment begins.

What the CDCP Does Not Cover

The CDCP is designed to cover essential dental care, so some treatments fall outside the plan. These generally include:

Dental implants
Cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening and veneers
Orthodontic treatment, including braces and clear aligners

If you’re interested in a treatment the CDCP doesn’t cover, we’ll explain your options clearly. Many private insurance plans include partial coverage for some of these services, and we offer direct billing to most providers.

Will I Have to Pay Anything?

The CDCP covers a percentage of eligible costs based on your adjusted family net income. Depending on your income level, you may have a co-payment, which is the portion you pay yourself.

There’s one more thing worth knowing. The CDCP pays according to its own fee schedule, which may differ from a dental office’s usual fees. If there’s a difference, you may be responsible for it. We’ll always discuss any expected costs with you before treatment begins, so there are no surprises.

How to Use Your CDCP Coverage at Our Clinic

Step 1

Confirm your CDCP coverage is active and note your member number from your Sun Life welcome package.

Step 2

Call us at (236) 312-6626 or request an appointment online, and let us know you have CDCP coverage.

Step 3

Bring your CDCP information to your first visit. We'll verify your coverage and explain what's included.

Step 4

We submit your claim directly to Sun Life for covered services, so you only pay any applicable co-payment or difference.

Common CDCP Questions We Hear

Clear answers before you send your appointment request.

I have coverage through a provincial program. Can I still use the CDCP?

In many cases yes. The CDCP is designed to coordinate with provincial and territorial dental programs. How the two work together depends on your situation, and we can help you understand it at your appointment.

My spouse has dental insurance through work. Am I still eligible?

Generally, if you have access to dental insurance through an employer, a pension, or a spouse’s plan, you would not qualify for the CDCP, even if you choose not to use that coverage. Eligibility is based on access to insurance, not whether you use it.

I had CDCP coverage last year. Do I need to reapply?

CDCP coverage is renewed each benefit year, and you’ll need to keep your tax filings current. Check the Government of Canada CDCP page for the current renewal process and dates.

Can I use CDCP coverage for a dental emergency?

Yes. Emergency dental care is covered at participating clinics for eligible services. We offer same-day emergency appointments during our clinic hours.

A CDCP Dentist Accepting New Patients in Port Coquitlam

Shaughnessy Square Dental Centre is located on the ground floor of Shaughnessy Square at 2099 Lougheed Highway, Unit A120, with free parking behind the building and step-free access from the front entrance. We’re open Monday to Saturday, which makes it easier to schedule around work and family commitments.

We’re a participating CDCP provider and we’re accepting new patients. If you have questions about your coverage, give us a call and our team will walk you through it.