What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal initiative helping eligible Canadians get affordable dental care. It’s run by the Government of Canada and administered by Sun Life Financial.
Who Can Apply?
You must meet all the following criteria to qualify:
- Have no access to any dental insurance (no employer, pension, private, or wellness plan).
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- File a tax return for the previous year.
- Have an adjusted family net income under $90,000.
The CDCP began rolling out in phases:
Seniors (65+) began applying in December 2023.
Children under 18 and adults with a Disability Tax Credit in June 2024.
The rest of the adults aged 18‑64 without insurance were added after May 2025.
- Ages 55‑64: May 1
- Ages 18‑34: May 15
- Ages 35‑54: May 29
Currently, all Eligible Canadians of all ages can apply for the CDCP.
What Does the CDCP Cover?
The CDCP helps cover many essential oral health services, including check-ups, cleanings, fillings, root canals, dentures, crowns, and some oral surgeries.
Starting November 1, 2024, more complex treatments (like partial dentures or crowns) require preauthorization from Sun Life before receiving coverage.
Costs & Co‑Payments
Depending on family income, the CDCP covers a portion of the “established fee schedule.” The rest is your co‑payment:
| Adjusted Annual Income | Government Covers | You Pay (Co‑Payment) |
|---|---|---|
| Under CAD 70,000 | 100% | 0% |
| CAD 70,000–79,999 | 60% | 40% |
| CAD 80,000–89,999 | 40% | 60% |
Also, some dentists charge above the CDCP fee schedule, known as balance billing. That extra difference is your responsibility.
How to Apply
Applications are open now on Canada.ca under the CDCP section. You’ll need your Social Insurance Number (SIN), date of birth, address, proof of income (notice of assessment), and tax returns from the previous year.
You can apply online through your My Service Canada Account or by mail, or by phone. Once accepted, you’ll receive a welcome package, a member card, and your start date for coverage.
CDCP for Seniors: Why It Matters
For older adults, dental care can be expensive, but oral health is vital for nutrition and overall health. Under the CDCP:
- Seniors aged 65+ got early access starting December 2023.
- They have coverage for routine and complex care (with preauthorization).
- Lower-income seniors (under CAD 70,000) get much or all of the cost covered.
This significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses for dental coverage for seniors and helps them keep their teeth healthy during retirement years.
Finding a Dentist That Accepts CDCP in Saskatoon
If you’re searching for a Saskatoon dentist or a dentist in Saskatoon who accepts CDCP, you can use Sun Life’s CDCP provider search or check directly with local clinics.
Meet Hampton Village Dentistry
Located at 102 Hampton Cir #70, Saskatoon, SK S7R 0L5, Hampton Village Dentistry is a trusted Saskatoon dentist serving communities like Dundonald, Kensington, Mount Royal, Westview, and more.
We offer general, cosmetic, emergency, and implant dentistry, plus patient‑focused services like sedation, extended hours, and same‑day emergency care.
The team, including Dr. Grace Kang and Dr. Khalil Delawarally, provides gentle, budget-friendly care tailored to each patient.
The clinic is a known dentist that accepts CDCP claims; we directly bill Sun Life for eligible services once you’re enrolled.
How Seniors Can Use CDCP at Hampton Village Dentistry
- Confirm eligibility: Make sure you’re eligible for CDCP (see above).
- Apply online at Canada.ca. Wait for your welcome package.
- Choose a CDCP‑accepting dentist, such as Hampton Village Dentistry.
- Book your appointment and let the clinic know you have CDCP coverage.
- Authorized services: Some services may need preauthorization; let the clinic handle submitting to Sun Life.
- At your visit, Hampton Village Dentistry will direct bill Sun Life for covered procedures. You’ll only pay any co‑payment or balance billing portion.
Key CDCP Benefits at a Glance
- Makes dental coverage for seniors affordable and accessible.
- Covers many essential services, including restorative and preventive care.
- Offers income‑based coverage tiers.
- Enables seniors to seek treatment sooner rather than delaying due to cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a federal dental benefit program to help eligible Canadians pay for oral health care, especially those with no private dental insurance and a family income under $90,000.
You must be a Canadian resident, have no access to dental insurance, have filed a tax return last year, and have an adjusted family net income below $90,000.
It covers essential services like exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, dentures, crowns (some need preauthorization), and certain oral surgeries.
If your family income is under $70,000, CDCP covers 100%; between $70K–79,999 = 60% covered; $80K–89,999 = 40% covered. Balance billing is extra.
Apply online or by phone, then use your coverage start date letter to book with a CDCP‑accepting dentist; many, including dentists in Saskatoon, will direct‑bill Sun Life.