How Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Work?

If you’ve been hearing about the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and wondering what it means for you, you’re not alone. This Government of Canada dental plan is designed to help millions of Canadians—especially those without private dental coverage—access affordable dental care.

At Kanaka Creek Family Dental in Maple Ridge, we’ve already had patients asking if they can use CDCP for check-ups, cleanings, and other treatments. Here’s what you need to know.

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The CDCP is a federal program that helps cover the cost of basic dental services for eligible Canadians. It aims to remove financial barriers to preventive and restorative care—services like exams, cleanings, fillings, and more.

This is especially important for families and seniors who may have delayed dental visits because of cost concerns.

Who is Eligible?

You may qualify for the CDCP if:

You don’t have private dental insurance through work, a group plan, or an individual policy
Your adjusted family net income is below the government’s set threshold
You are a Canadian resident and have filed your taxes
The Government of Canada determines eligibility based on your most recent tax return.

How Much Does the CDCP Cover?

Coverage depends on your household income:

Lower-income households may get up to 100% coverage for eligible services
Middle-income households may get partial coverage, with the remainder paid out-of-pocket
It’s important to note that CDCP payments are based on the federal government’s fee guide, which can differ from the BC Dental Association fee guide. That means you may have a small portion to pay yourself.

What Services are Covered?

At Kanaka Creek Family Dental, many of our common treatments are eligible for CDCP coverage, including:

Dental exams & check-ups
Professional teeth cleanings (scaling, polishing)
X-rays
Fillings
Root canal treatment on certain teeth
Tooth extractions
Some dentures and prosthetic services
Treatments considered cosmetic—like whitening or veneers—are not covered.

How to Apply for the CDCP

You can apply online through the Government of Canada CDCP portal or by phone. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive a benefits card.

When you come to our Maple Ridge dental office, simply bring your CDCP card and we will:

Confirm your eligibility

Submit your dental claims directly to the plan
Let you know if there’s any remaining balance after coverage is applied

Why Choose Kanaka Creek Family Dental for Your CDCP Appointments?

We’re a full-service family dental clinic in Maple Ridge that welcomes patients with CDCP coverage. Whether you need a routine cleaning, a filling, or a more complex treatment, our experienced team is here to help you get the care you need without financial stress.

Final Tip: If you think you may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, apply as soon as possible. Regular dental visits not only keep your smile healthy—they help prevent costly problems later on.

Kanaka Creek Family Dental – Your trusted Maple Ridge dentist for CDCP patients.

Call us to book your appointment today.