Canadian Dental Care Plan - What You Need to Know
On December 11th, 2023, the federal government revealed the highly anticipated details of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). A $13-billion initiative, the program is set to cover the costs of basic dental care for approximately 9 million uninsured Canadians with household incomes under $90,000.
CDCP Expansion
The final phase of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) implementation will soon be underway. Starting in May 2025, all eligible Canadians can apply by age group:
- May 1: Ages 55–64
- May 15: Ages 18–34
- May 29: Ages 35–54
Coverage may begin as early as June 1, 2025, depending on application timing. Approved applicants will receive a letter confirming eligibility, CDCP member ID, coverage start date, and co-payment.
Patients do not need their physical card to receive care—just the eligibility letter.
CDCP Renewals Begin Soon
The federal government will soon begin the annual reassessment of current CDCP clients to confirm they meet all eligibility requirements. To maintain coverage, those covered will need to renew their coverage after filing their tax return and receiving their Notice of Assessment from the CRA.
- Patients will receive a personalized renewal letter with instructions. To avoid gaps in coverage, they must renew before June 1, 2025.
- Upon successful renewal, patients will receive a confirmation letter with their new coverage start date and any co-payment changes based on their adjusted family net income.
- Non-renewed/ineligible clients will have their CDCP coverage end on June 30, 2025, with notification letters issued by the Government of Canada.
Visit Canada.ca/dental for full details and direct your patients here if they have questions.