December 11, 2023 – The Government of Canada has unveiled the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) with the goal of reducing financial barriers to oral health care The CDCP is set to benefit up to nine million uninsured Canadian residents with an annual family income below $90,000.
Phased Roll-out Begins with Seniors
Recognizing the importance of oral health in preventing serious health problems, the CDCP will be introduced in phases, starting with seniors. Those aged 87 and above will have the first opportunity to apply in December 2023, followed by subsequent age groups in the following months.
Seniors aged 65 and older can apply online from May 2024, while those with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate and children under 18 can submit applications online starting June 2024. The application process for all remaining eligible Canadian residents aged 18 to 64 will be open in 2025.
Easy Application Process Through Service Canada
Eligible individuals will receive invitation letters with personalized codes and instructions to apply by telephone. The application process will transition to an online portal in May 2024, streamlining access for applicants.
First Appointments as Early as May 2024
Canadians enrolled in the CDCP can schedule appointments with oral health providers as early as May 2024. The coverage start date, details of coverage, and member card will be communicated by Sun Life, the contracted service provider, in a welcome package.
Comprehensive Coverage for Oral Health Services
The CDCP will cover a range of oral health services, including preventive care like scaling and polishing, examinations, x-rays, fillings, removable dentures, root canal treatments, and more. Regular reviews will ensure the plan aligns with the evolving needs of Canadians. Views all the things that are covered here.
Quick Facts:
- The CDCP, a $13 billion investment over 5 years, and $4.4 billion ongoing, aims to benefit up to nine million Canadians.
- Sun Life will administer the CDCP under a $746,698,598.22 contract.
Who Qualifies for CDCP:
- No access to dental insurance.
- Annual family net income under $90,000.
- Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Filed tax return in the previous year.
When to Apply:
- Seniors aged 87 and above: Starting December 2023
- Seniors aged 65 to 69: Starting May 2024
- All remaining eligible Canadian residents: Starting 2025
How to Apply:
- Eligible individuals will receive invitation letters with personalized codes.
- Applications open in December 2023 for phone applications and shift to an online portal in May 2024.
How Much Will Be Covered:
- No co-payment for an adjusted annual family net income under $70,000.
- 40% co-payment for income between $70,000 and $79,999.
- 60% co-payment for income between $80,000 and $89,999.