Canadian Dental Care Plan | How It Works

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a program from the Government of Canada designed to make essential dental care more accessible, including limited orthodontic treatment for those with medical needs. If your household income is under $90,000 and you do not have private dental insurance, you may qualify for partial or full coverage under this plan.

Household Income and Coverage Levels

Coverage under the CDCP is based on your adjusted family net income, which is assessed through your most recent tax return:

Adjusted Family Net Income CDCP Covers You Cover (Co-payment)
Under $70,000 100% of eligible services at CDCP rates 0% (you may still face additional fees)
$70,000 – $79,999 60% of eligible services at CDCP rates 40% of CDCP rates
$80,000 – $89,999 40% of eligible services at CDCP rates 60% of CDCP rates

Note: Our office may charge more than CDCP's established fees. Any additional cost is your responsibility. Always confirm coverage and fees with our office before receiving care.

What Services Are Covered?

Orthodontic services under the CDCP are limited and will only be covered for eligible patients who meet strict medical criteria. Preauthorization is required. Covered services include:


  • Orthodontic assessments (when medically necessary)
  • Braces or appliances for severe, functionally impairing malocclusions (based on the HLD Index)
  • Limited to children under 18 or adults with craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip/palate


Note:  Cosmetic orthodontics and general orthodontic treatment without a medical need are not covered. Always confirm with our office to see if your condition qualifies for coverage under the CDCP.

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify for the CDCP if you meet all four of the following conditions:


  1. No access to dental insurance through work, school, or private purchase
  2. You and your spouse/partner (if applicable) filed a Canadian tax return for the previous year
  3. Adjusted family net income is under $90,000
  4. You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes


If you have dental coverage through a government social program, you may still qualify. The CDCP will coordinate coverage to avoid duplication.

Once You Apply

Once approved, you’ll receive:


  • A letter with your CDCP Member ID, start date, and co-payment level
  • A member card from Sun Life
  • Instructions to book care (appointments must be on or after your benefit start date)

How to Apply

Learn more and apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) through the Government of Canada’s official website. Learn more or apply here.