The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers cleanings, X-rays, fluoride and more for residents who do not have dental insurance. Applying takes about 15 minutes. Here is exactly how.
Who can apply
- Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Filed your tax return for the previous year (and your spouse or partner has too)
- Adjusted family net income under $90,000
- No access to dental insurance through an employer, pension, student plan or private policy
Provincial programs such as Alberta seniors dental benefits do not count against eligibility.
What you need
- Social Insurance Number for you and any family members you are applying for
- Date of birth for each person
- Home and mailing address
- Confirmation that you filed last year’s taxes
How to apply
Online: go to the Government of Canada CDCP page and follow the apply link. One application can cover you, your spouse or partner, and children under 18.
By phone: call Service Canada at 1-833-537-4342. An agent completes the application with you.
In person: any Service Canada Centre can help, which is useful if you need help with the online form.
How long it takes
Most applicants hear back within a few weeks. Once approved, Sun Life mails a welcome package with your member card and your coverage start date. You can check progress in your My Service Canada Account.
What you pay
The plan pays 100% of its fee if family income is under $70,000, 60% between $70,000 and $79,999, and 40% between $80,000 and $89,999. Providers may charge the difference between their fee and the plan’s fee, so ask before treatment.
Using your coverage
You do not have to see a dentist first. Registered dental hygienists are CDCP providers for cleanings, scaling, fluoride, sealants and X-rays. Yours Dental Hygiene in Edmonton bills the CDCP directly and is open seven days a week. Bring your card and we take care of the rest.