Canadian Dental Care Plan Near You
Many Canadians skip the dentist because of cost. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) helps fix that. It’s a government-funded program that helps people who do not have private dental insurance get basic dental care.
If your family income is below $90,000 a year, you may qualify for this program.
At Kensington Dental Choice, we’re proud to be a CDCP provider in NW Calgary. Our goal is to make dental care easier to access and more affordable for everyone in our community.

Who Can Get Coverage?
The CDCP is open to Canadians who meet a few conditions. You can apply if you:
- Don’t have private dental insurance through work or personal plans
- Are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Have filed your latest tax return
- Have an adjusted family net income below $90,000
The program first started for seniors in late 2023, and it’s being expanded to include more people. By May 2025, all uninsured adults in Canada will be eligible, with coverage starting as early as June 1, 2025.
Age Eligibility for the CDCP
The CDCP is being rolled out in stages based on age.
Here’s how it works:
- Seniors aged 65 and older were first to qualify.
- Adults aged 18 to 64 became eligible in 2025.
- Children under 18 are also covered through the same program.
So now, most Canadians without dental insurance can apply, as long as they meet the income and residency rules.

Income-Based Coverage
The CDCP covers a portion of your dental bill based on your family’s income level.
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Government Covers | You Pay | Extra Billing (if clinic charges above CDCP rate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below $70,000 | 100% of CDCP rates | 0% | Any extra amount above the CDCP guide |
| $70,000–$79,999 | 60% of CDCP rates | 40% | Any extra amount above the CDCP guide |
| $80,000–$89,999 | 40% of CDCP rates | 60% | Any extra amount above the CDCP guide |
If a cleaning costs $134 under the CDCP rate and your dentist in NW Calgary charges $145, here’s what happens:
- If you earn under $70,000, you pay only $11.
- If your income is between $70,000–$79,999, you pay $64.60 (your share + the fee difference).
- This system makes it easier to plan dental visits without big surprises.
What the Canadian Dental Program Covers
The Canadian dental program covers most basic dental services. These include:
- Checkups and cleanings
- X-rays and fluoride treatments
- Fillings for cavities
- Tooth extractions
- Root canals
- Periodontal (gum) care
- Crowns, dentures, and bridges (may need preauthorization)
- Oral surgery and sedation
Starting in mid-2025, limited orthodontic care for medical needs will also be included.
All major procedures, like crowns or dentures, require preauthorization through Sun Life, the official CDCP administrator.
What the CDCP Does Not Cover
While the CDCP covers many treatments, it doesn’t pay for everything. Services that the Canadian dental care plan does not cover are listed as below:
- Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening or veneers
- Orthodontics for cosmetic purposes
- Procedures not considered medically necessary
- Missed appointment fees or after-hours fees
- Before starting treatment, it’s best to ask your dentist near you to confirm what’s covered.
How to Apply for the CDCP
To apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan in NW Calgary, you can either do it online or via phone.
- Check eligibility by making sure you meet all the eligibility criteria.
- Visit your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or call 1-833-537-4342.
- After approval, you will receive a welcome letter and your CDCP ID number.
- Choose a dentist near you who is a registered CDCP provider.
A dental clinic will bill Sun Life directly, so you won’t have to manage claims.
Tips for CDCP Patients
If you are new to the program, here are a few tips to make the process smoother:
- Confirm your income range and co-pay before your visit.
- Ask if your dental clinic in NW Calgary charges above CDCP rates.
- Schedule your checkups and cleanings regularly; they are fully covered for many patients.
- Keep your income details updated to avoid interruptions in coverage.
These small steps can help you make the most of your CDCP benefits.
Why Choose Kensington Dental Choice
At Kensington Dental Choice, we aim to make patients’ access care that is affordable and simple by helping them through the process when they look for a Canadian Dental Care Plan.
- Check your CDCP eligibility before your appointment
- Handle all billing directly with Sun Life
- Submit preauthorization for major treatments
- Explain all costs clearly before starting any procedure
We understand how confusing new programs can feel, which is why we’re here to help you understand the plan when you are looking to access dental care by applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan near you, by helping you every step of the way, from checking eligibility to completing treatments.
Book your appointment online today to learn more about how we can help you use your CDCP coverage with ease.
FAQs
Anyone living in Canada with an income below $90,000 and no private dental insurance.
Yes. CDCP for seniors started in 2023, giving full coverage to lower-income seniors.
No. Cosmetic treatments like whitening or veneers are not covered.
Yes. Kids under 18 are included if they meet the income and residency rules.
