Your Guide to the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2025

If you are exploring how to get affordable dental care in Canada, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a key program to understand. In this article, you will learn what the CDCP is, who’s eligible, what’s covered, and how you can use it, plus one clinic that accepts it.

What is the CDCP?

The CDCP is a federal dental-care support program designed to help Canadians without private dental insurance whose adjusted family net income is below a specific threshold. The goal of this program is to make oral health care more accessible and reduce the cost barrier for essential dental treatments.

Why the CDCP matters

• Oral health is closely tied to overall health: poor dental health can lead to or signal conditions such as gum disease, heart disease, and diabetes.
• For people without coverage, dental costs can be a major deterrent. The CDCP helps bridge that gap.
• In 2025, the program is rolling out more broadly across age groups and income levels, increasing access.
• By understanding the CDCP, you can plan for your dental care with confidence without worrying about cost.

Who is eligible for the CDCP?

To qualify for the CDCP in 2025, you must meet all of the following:

1. Be a Canadian resident (for tax purposes) and have filed your tax return for the previous year.
2. Have no access to private dental insurance or dental coverage through an employer, a pension, or a family member.
3. Have an adjusted family net income below $90,000.
4. Apply via the official channel and complete any required steps.

Important notes for 2025:

• The program launched in phases, starting with children, seniors, and persons with disabilities, and is expanding further in 2025.
• Even if you have some government-social dental coverage, you may still qualify, provided you meet the conditions.
• Having access to dental insurance (even if you don’t use it) may make you ineligible.

What services does the CDCP cover?

The CDCP covers a range of essential dental services, though not everything is included. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Covered services include:

• Preventive care: exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments.
• Diagnostic services: X-rays, assessments.
• Basic restorative care: fillings, simple extractions.
• Major services: crowns, removable dentures, oral surgery in many cases (subject to benefit schedule and pre-authorization).

Services not (generally) covered:

• Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers.
• Implants and associated procedures (in many cases).
• Some advanced orthodontic treatments (except in medically necessary cases, and pre-authorization may apply).

Co-payments / limits:

• If your adjusted family net income is under ~$70K, the CDCP may cover 100% of the “grid” fee.
• For incomes between ~$70K–≈$79K, the plan covers about 60%. For ~$80K–≈$89 K, about 40%. (Amounts may vary slightly)
• Even when it says “100% covered”, the dentist’s actual fee may exceed the CDCP grid allowance; you could pay the difference (“balance billing”).

How to apply & use the CDCP in 2025

1. Check your eligibility: Confirm you meet all conditions (income, no insurance access, residency).
2. Gather required documents: Tax return/Notice of Assessment, proof of no private dental coverage, and personal ID.
3. Apply online via the program’s official portal or by mail/phone, where applicable.
4. Wait for your coverage start date: You need to wait for your welcome package or card, which confirms when you can begin services.
5. Find a participating provider: Not all dentists may accept the CDCP; you’ll want one that bills directly under the program.
6. Book your treatment: At your dentist’s office, indicate you’re a CDCP member, present your card, and confirm what is or isn’t covered prior to treatment.
7. Renew annually: Since income may change, you’ll likely need to file each year to maintain eligibility.

Choosing a clinic that accepts the CDCP

When selecting a dental clinic for CDCP-eligible care, you might look for:

• There is a clear mention on their website that they accept the CDCP.
• Transparent pricing and discussion of any possible extra fees (balance billing).
• Good communication about what portion is covered under the CDCP and what you might pay.
• Convenient location and services that match your needs (children, adult care, emergency, etc).

Experience Premium CDCP Dental Care at Stadium Dental, Vancouver

At Stadium Dental, we are proud to be a registered CDCP provider in downtown Vancouver, helping make world-class dentistry more accessible for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a routine cleaning, restorative treatment, or a full smile makeover, our team delivers precision care backed by advanced technology and a gentle touch.

With our professional dentists, we provide the same premium experience to all patients enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), including complimentary 3D digital scans, low-radiation X-rays, sedation options, and even child-friendly rooms complete with ceiling TVs and a toy tower.

Our CDCP care includes:

• Preventive exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments
• Restorative work, such as fillings, crowns, and dentures
• Emergency relief and extractions
• Gentle, biocompatible treatments designed for lasting comfort

We also offer up to 50% off your total bill for eligible CDCP patients and handle direct CDCP billing so your visits stay stress-free. You may contact us to discuss which procedures are covered and whether there are any additional fees, etc.

Located steps away from Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain, with free parking and flexible hours, Stadium Dental makes it simple to enjoy exceptional care through your CDCP coverage.

Book your free CDCP consultation today and discover how government-supported dental care can still mean luxury, precision, and confidence every visit.

Tips to make the most of your CDCP coverage

• Ask about pre-authorization: Some major treatments (such as crowns or dentures) may require pre-approval under the CDCP.
• Clarify balance billing: Even if CDCP says “100% coverage,” verify whether the dentist’s fee aligns with the CDCP grid; you may be responsible for the difference.
• Plan preventive care early: Use coverage for check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and staying ahead of issues will save you money and improve your health.
• Confirm provider participation: Before booking, make sure your dental clinic participates in CDCP and understands how to bill correctly.
• Keep documents handy: Your CDCP card, proof of eligibility, and any treatment plan or quote from your dentist will help avoid surprises.
• Check renewal deadlines: Income and family status can change. Timely renewal ensures you don’t have a coverage gap.

Looking ahead: What’s new in 2025 for the CDCP?

• The rollout to more age groups beyond children and seniors is progressing in 2025.
• Some newer services and expanded coverage (including certain medically necessary orthodontic treatments) may become available.
• More dental providers are joining the program, making access easier across Canada.

Why this matters for you

If you are a Canadian resident with no private dental insurance, and your family’s net income is under the threshold, the CDCP offers a meaningful way to get essential dental care at reduced cost. By understanding eligibility, coverage, and how to choose a provider, you position yourself to access good oral health care without an overwhelming financial burden.