The Canadian government has recently launched the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), a program designed to improve access to dental care for seniors aged 65 and older. Through this initiative, eligible seniors can now receive free or low-cost dental care, depending on their family net income.
Who Is Eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
All Canadian seniors aged 65 and older whose adjusted net family income falls below a certain threshold may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), provided they do not have private dental insurance. To be eligible, seniors must meet the following criteria:
- Not have access to other dental insurance
- Have an adjusted net family income of less than $90,000 per year
- Be a Canadian resident
- Have filed a tax return for the previous year
What Services Are Covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers a wide range of essential oral health services for seniors. Some services may require prior authorization. It’s recommended to check with your dentist or the government to confirm whether the services you need are fully covered. Here’s an overview of the main types of services included:
Preventive and Diagnostic Care
The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers dental exams (comprehensive, routine, specific, and emergency), X-rays, cleanings (scaling), fluoride applications, and sealants. These services help seniors prevent oral diseases and detect issues early.
Restorative Care
Permanent and temporary fillings are covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan. The plan also includes pain relief treatments for decayed or fractured teeth, helping improve seniors’ daily comfort.
Root Canal Treatment
The CDCP covers root canal treatment, pulpectomies, and other procedures intended to treat dental infections and relieve pain.
Gum Care
Covered periodontal services include deep cleaning below the gumline, abscess treatment, and in some cases, splinting of loose teeth (requires prior authorization). Post-surgical evaluations and non-surgical gum disease treatments may also be reimbursed.
Major Restorations
The Canadian Dental Care Plan provides coverage for crown repair, recementing of crowns and post-cores, and removal of posts. Crowns, cast cores, and post-cores may be covered with prior authorization.
Removable Dentures
The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers complete (standard or temporary) dentures, repairs, relines, and rebasing of removable dentures, as well as adjustments for comfort. Immediate, hybrid, and partial dentures are also eligible, often with prior authorization.
Oral Surgery
Tooth extractions, tumor removal, and other surgical procedures are also included. This includes correction of various conditions affecting the mouth or jaw.
Co-payments and Additional Fees: What You’ll Pay Based on Your Income
Under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), you may be required to pay a co-payment based on your adjusted net family income. This co-payment is the portion of dental costs not covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan and must be paid directly to your dentist. The co-payment amount is determined by your income.
Co-Payment Breakdown by Income
The table below shows the cost breakdown based on your adjusted family net income:
| Adjusted Net Family Income | Amount Covered by CDCP | Your Co-Payment |
| Less than $70,000 | 100% of eligible dental service costs | 0% of the costs covered by the CDCP. Additional fees may apply. |
| Between $70,000 and $79,999 | 60% of eligible costs | 40% of the costs covered by the CDCP. Additional fees may apply. |
| Between $80,000 and $89,999 | 40% of eligible costs | 60% of the costs covered by the CDCP. Additional fees may apply. |
Additional Fees to Consider
The fees covered by the CDCP may differ from those charged by dental providers. You may be responsible for extra charges if:
- The cost of your treatment exceeds what the CDCP reimburses.
- You and your dentist agree on services not covered by the CDCP.
Before undergoing any treatment, it’s important to ask your dentist if there will be any uncovered fees. Make sure you understand what you’ll need to pay out of pocket before accepting care.
Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors
Dental care plays a vital role in the overall health of seniors, directly impacting their physical, emotional, and social well-being. As we age, dental issues become more frequent and complex. Conditions such as tooth loss, gum disease, and other oral health disorders can affect nutrition and general health.
Untreated dental problems can also lead to significant psychosocial consequences. Missing teeth or chronic pain can affect self-esteem, communication, and social interaction. Maintaining good oral hygiene, and receiving appropriate care helps seniors preserve their quality of life, autonomy and comfort day-to-day.
At Bonjour Résidences, we understand how essential it is to find a living environment that supports the overall well-being of your loved ones. If you’re looking for a senior living offering the right care and services, our senior housing specialists are here to help. Contact us at 1 844 918-1020 or fill out an online request today.
Q&A: Everything You Need to Know About the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Q: Can I access this program if I’m a resident of Quebec?
A: Yes, residents in Quebec are eligible, as long as they meet the program’s criteria.
Q: Are dental care services free for seniors?
A: Not necessarily. Dental care is not automatically free for seniors. Through the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), seniors aged 65 and over may receive partial or full coverage depending on their adjusted net family income.
Q: How does the dental insurance program work?
A: Service Canada sends the information of each eligible citizen to Sun Life, the organization administering the program.
Q: What dental services are covered under this plan?
A: The federal dental care plan covers a wide range of services, including preventive care (scaling, polishing, fluoride), exams, X-rays, restorative treatments (fillings), endodontic (root canal), prosthodontic (dentures), periodontal (deep cleaning), and surgical services (tooth extractions).
Q: If I didn’t file an income tax return last year, am I eligible?
A: No. Only individuals who submitted a valid income tax return for the previous year may be eligible for the program.