What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Understanding CDCP eligibility in 2026 is essential for Canadian families who need dental care but lack private insurance. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government programme designed to help eligible residents access dental services at reduced or no cost. Since its phased rollout began in 2024, the programme has expanded to cover Canadians of all ages who meet specific income and insurance requirements.
At Pickering Square Dental, we proudly accept CDCP patients and want to make the process as straightforward as possible. Whether you live in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, or Markham, this guide will help you understand who qualifies, what’s covered, and how to get started.
CDCP Eligibility 2026: Who Qualifies?
To qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Canadian residency. You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes and have filed your most recent tax return.
- No private dental insurance. You must not have access to dental coverage through an employer, a spouse or partner’s plan, or any private insurance policy. If you have coverage through a provincial or territorial programme (like Ontario Works or ODSP), you may still qualify for CDCP for services not covered by those programmes.
- Adjusted family net income below $90,000. Your adjusted family net income, as reported on your most recent tax return, determines both eligibility and the level of coverage you receive.
The programme uses a tiered co-payment structure based on income:
- Under $70,000: No co-payment—the CDCP covers the full cost of eligible services.
- $70,000 to $79,999: You pay 40% of the cost; the CDCP covers 60%.
- $80,000 to $89,999: You pay 60% of the cost; the CDCP covers 40%.
There is no age restriction as of 2026. The programme initially prioritised seniors, children, and persons with disabilities, but has since opened to all eligible Canadians. For the latest details, visit the Government of Canada’s official CDCP page.
What Dental Services Does the CDCP Cover?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers a broad range of dental services. Covered treatments fall into several categories:
Preventive care:
- Dental examinations and assessments
- Professional cleanings (scaling and polishing)
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental X-rays
- Sealants for children
Restorative care:
- Fillings (amalgam and composite)
- Root canal therapy
- Extractions
- Crowns
Prosthodontic services:
- Complete and partial dentures
- Denture repairs and relines
Periodontal services:
- Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing)
- Periodontal assessments
Oral surgery:
- Surgical extractions
- Other medically necessary oral surgical procedures
It’s worth noting that cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and elective orthodontics are generally not covered. Our team at Pickering Square Dental can help you understand exactly which of your needed treatments fall under the plan.
How to Apply for the CDCP
The application process is managed by Sun Life, the plan’s administrator. Here’s how to apply:
- Check your eligibility. Verify that you meet the income, residency, and insurance criteria outlined above. You’ll need your most recent Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
- Apply online or by phone. Visit the Sun Life CDCP portal or call 1-833-537-4342 to begin your application. You can also apply through your My Service Canada Account.
- Receive your member card. Once approved, Sun Life will mail you a CDCP member card. This card contains your member ID number, which you’ll present at dental appointments.
- Book your appointment. Contact a participating dental provider—like Pickering Square Dental—to schedule your visit. Let us know you’re a CDCP member when you call so we can prepare accordingly.
Processing times vary, but most applicants receive their member card within four to eight weeks of submitting a complete application.
What to Bring to Your First CDCP Appointment
When you visit Pickering Square Dental as a CDCP patient, please bring the following:
- Your CDCP member card issued by Sun Life
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s licence, Ontario photo card, or passport)
- A list of current medications and any relevant medical history
- Previous dental records or X-rays if available (your former dentist can send these to us)
Our family dentistry team will handle all claims submissions directly to Sun Life on your behalf. You won’t need to file paperwork or wait for reimbursement—we take care of everything at the time of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CDCP
Can I use the CDCP if I have coverage through Ontario Works or ODSP?
Yes, in many cases. If your provincial programme does not cover a specific service you need, the CDCP may cover the gap. However, you cannot use both programmes for the same service. Our administrative team can help coordinate benefits to maximise your coverage.
Does the CDCP cover dental implants?
As of 2026, dental implants are not listed among standard covered services under the CDCP. The plan focuses on essential and restorative dental care. However, coverage details may evolve, so it’s worth checking the most current guidelines or asking our team for an update.
How often can I visit the dentist under the CDCP?
The CDCP follows standard dental guidelines for visit frequency. Most preventive services, such as examinations and cleanings, are covered once every six to nine months, depending on your oral health needs. Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your individual situation.
What if my income changes during the year?
Eligibility is reassessed annually based on your most recent tax filing. If your income rises above $90,000 or you gain access to private dental insurance, you must notify Sun Life. Similarly, if your income drops, you may qualify for a lower co-payment tier.
Is Pickering Square Dental a CDCP provider?
Yes. Pickering Square Dental is a registered CDCP provider. Dr. Marvin Lean, Dr. Irit Shoval, and Dr. David Lee welcome CDCP patients and provide the full range of covered services. We serve families from Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.
Book Your CDCP Appointment Today
Don’t let the lack of private dental insurance keep you from getting the care you deserve. The Canadian Dental Care Plan makes quality dental treatment accessible and affordable for thousands of families across Ontario. At Pickering Square Dental, we’re committed to helping every patient navigate the programme smoothly. If you have questions about CDCP eligibility in 2026, our team will walk you through every step.
Call us today at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your CDCP appointment. Our office is conveniently located at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON—just minutes from Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough. We look forward to welcoming you.
About Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS
Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS, is the owner and lead dentist at Pickering Square Dental. With decades of experience in family and laser dentistry, Dr. Lean is also the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He is a member of the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Dr. Lean and his team provide comprehensive dental care including sedation dentistry, dental implants, emergency dental care, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.
