OTTAWA — As of today, Canadians aged 35 to 54 can apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), a federal initiative aimed at easing the cost of dental services for low- and middle-income residents.
The CDCP, which launched in 2023, is designed to help individuals and families with an adjusted net income below $90,000 access essential dental care. The federal government estimates that up to nine million uninsured Canadians could benefit from the program.
Application Window Expands to New Age Group
Earlier this month, eligibility opened for those aged 18 to 34. Starting Thursday, May 29, the program extends to include people aged 35 to 54.
Government officials say letters are being sent to Canadians aged 18 to 64 who may qualify based on their 2024 income. However, anyone within the eligible age range can apply now—whether they’ve received a letter or not—as long as they’ve filed a 2024 tax return and obtained a notice of assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Important Reminder for Existing Members
Those already enrolled in the CDCP are reminded to renew their coverage for the 2025–2026 benefit year before June 1 to avoid a lapse in service. Renewal also requires a 2024 tax return and CRA notice of assessment.
What Services Are Covered?
The CDCP currently includes a range of dental services:
- Preventive care: cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and polishing
- Diagnostic services: dental exams and X-rays
- Restorative treatments: fillings
- Periodontal care: deep scaling for gum disease
- Oral surgery: tooth extractions
Expanded Coverage Coming in October 2024
Additional services will be added in October, including:
- Specialist consultations
- Crowns
- Root canal re-treatment
- Removable partial dentures, overdentures, and immediate dentures
- Major oral surgery
- Moderate to deep sedation and general anesthesia
The CDCP continues to roll out in stages, aiming to make dental care more accessible for millions of Canadians who previously could not afford it.
