Last Updated: May 2026
Quick Answer: The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers essential dental services like exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, and dentures for eligible Canadians. For households with an adjusted net income under $70,000, the plan covers 100% of eligible costs based on the CDCP fee guide. Coverage is administered by Sun Life and requires using a registered dental provider.
The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) provides crucial dental coverage for eligible Canadian residents who lack private insurance. This federal program is designed to reduce financial barriers, making essential oral healthcare more accessible. At Dentistry on Guelph, a registered CDCP provider, we are committed to helping our patients understand and utilize their benefits for a healthier smile.
This guide breaks down exactly what dental treatments are included under the CDCP, how the co-payment system works, and the process for receiving care. Understanding your coverage is the first step toward making informed decisions about your oral health. The plan is being rolled out in phases, with eligibility expanding to different age groups throughout 2025 and 2026, aiming to cover all eligible uninsured Canadians by its full implementation.
Led by Dr. Reza Shahhaidari, our team combines over 25 years of global experience with a patient-first approach. We offer a welcoming environment with convenient hours, including evenings and Saturdays, to ensure you can get the care you need. We even offer a free first appointment for eligible CDCP patients to help you get started on your journey to better dental health.
Understanding Your CDCP Eligibility and Coverage Levels
Eligibility for the Canada Dental Care Plan is primarily based on two factors: access to dental insurance and adjusted family net income. To qualify, you must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes, have filed a tax return in the previous year, and not have access to any other dental insurance plan (including through an employer, a professional organization, or a family member).
The level of coverage you receive is determined by your adjusted family net income from the previous year’s tax return. This tiered system ensures that support is directed where it’s needed most:
- Adjusted family net income under $70,000: The CDCP will cover 100% of eligible dental service costs, based on the established CDCP fee guide.
- Adjusted family net income between $70,000 and $79,999: The CDCP will cover 60% of eligible service costs. The remaining 40% is a co-payment that the patient is responsible for.
- Adjusted family net income between $80,000 and $89,999: The CDCP will cover 40% of eligible service costs, with the patient responsible for the 60% co-payment.
Canadians with an adjusted family net income of $90,000 or more are not eligible for the CDCP. It’s important to note that dentists are not required to follow the CDCP fee guide. At Dentistry on Guelph, we are transparent about all costs and will provide a detailed estimate before any treatment begins, explaining what the CDCP covers and what your out-of-pocket portion, if any, will be. As a registered provider in Guelph, we handle direct electronic billing to Sun Life to simplify the process for you.
What Dental Services Are Covered by the CDCP?
The CDCP is designed to cover a wide range of common and necessary dental procedures to maintain good oral health. The services are grouped into several categories, from preventative care to major restorative work. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect to be covered.
Preventative & Diagnostic Services
This is the foundation of good oral health. The plan covers services aimed at preventing dental problems before they start and diagnosing issues early.
- Examinations and Assessments: Includes initial exams, regular check-ups, and emergency examinations.
- X-rays: A variety of imaging services are covered to help Dr. Shahhaidari see the full picture of your oral health.
- Cleanings (Scaling and Polishing): Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
- Fluoride Treatments: Topical application to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
- Sealants: A protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent decay.
Restorative Services
When a tooth is damaged by decay or injury, restorative services are used to repair it and restore its function. The CDCP covers many standard procedures.
- Fillings: To repair cavities and restore the tooth’s structure.
- Crowns: Certain types of crowns are covered to protect a weak or broken tooth, though this service requires preauthorization from Sun Life starting in November 2024.
- Root Canal Treatments: To save a tooth that has become severely infected or decayed. This service also requires preauthorization for certain teeth.
Prosthodontic and Surgical Services
For patients with missing teeth or other complex issues, the plan includes coverage for dentures and necessary extractions.
- Removable Dentures: Both complete and partial dentures are covered to replace missing teeth.
- Extractions: Removal of teeth that are non-restorable.
- Major Oral Surgery: More complex surgical procedures may be covered but will require preauthorization.
Services Requiring Preauthorization and What Isn’t Covered
While the CDCP is comprehensive, it doesn’t cover everything, and some services require an extra step called preauthorization. Starting in November 2024, Sun Life must approve certain treatments before they are performed to confirm they are covered under the plan. This process helps manage costs and ensure the treatment is medically necessary according to the plan’s guidelines.
Services that will require preauthorization include:
- Crowns and Bridges
- Root Canal Treatments on specific teeth
- Complete and Partial Dentures
- Major Oral Surgery
Our administrative team at Dentistry on Guelph will handle the preauthorization submission on your behalf. We will prepare and send all necessary documentation, including x-rays and a description of the proposed treatment, to Sun Life for review. We will only proceed with the treatment once approval is received, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your coverage.
It is equally important to know what the CDCP does not cover. These services are generally considered cosmetic or are outside the scope of the plan’s focus on essential care:
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and cosmetic bonding are not covered.
- Orthodontics: Braces and other treatments to straighten teeth are not included.
- Dental Implants: Currently, dental implants are not a covered benefit. While they are often the best long-term solution for missing teeth, patients must cover the cost privately. If you are considering this option, you can learn more about the All-on-4 Dental Implants in Guelph: 2026 Cost & Procedure or get a broader perspective on the Full Mouth Dental Implants Cost in Ontario in 2026.
How to Use Your CDCP Coverage at Dentistry on Guelph
As a registered CDCP provider, Dentistry on Guelph is ready to help you access your benefits. We’ve streamlined our process to make it as straightforward as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using your coverage at our clinic, conveniently located at 380 Eramosa Rd in Guelph.
- Confirm Your Eligibility: First, you must apply for the CDCP through the Government of Canada’s official channels. Once your application is approved, you will be enrolled in the plan.
- Receive Your Sun Life Welcome Kit: Sun Life, the administrator of the CDCP, will mail you a welcome kit. This package includes your member card and details about your coverage start date.
- Book Your Appointment: Contact our office to schedule your visit. Let our team know you are covered under the CDCP. We offer convenient hours, including evenings until 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, as well as walk-in and same-day emergency appointments.
- Your First Visit: Bring your CDCP member card and a piece of photo ID to your appointment. Dr. Reza Shahhaidari will conduct a thorough examination and discuss your oral health needs. We will then develop a treatment plan and review it with you, clearly outlining which services are covered by the CDCP and any potential co-payments.
- Direct Billing and Payment: After your treatment, we will bill Sun Life directly for the covered portion of your services. You will only be responsible for paying your co-payment (if any) and the cost of any services not covered by the plan at the time of your appointment. Our multilingual staff, fluent in English and Spanish, are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have to pay anything out-of-pocket with the CDCP?
Yes, you may have a co-payment. If your adjusted family net income is between $70,000 and $89,999, you will be responsible for 40% or 60% of the cost. You are also responsible for any charges above the CDCP fee guide and for services not covered by the plan.
2. Are dental implants covered by the Canada Dental Care Plan?
No, dental implants are not currently a covered service under the CDCP. The plan focuses on essential restorative services like fillings, crowns, and dentures, but not implant placement or restoration.
3. How do I find a dentist in Guelph that accepts the CDCP?
Oral health providers must be registered with Sun Life to participate in the CDCP. Dentistry on Guelph is a registered provider, and you can confirm this or find others through the Sun Life portal. We welcome all eligible patients from Guelph and the surrounding communities.
4. Does the CDCP cover root canals and crowns?
Yes, the plan does cover root canals and certain types of crowns. However, as of November 2024, these major services will require preauthorization from Sun Life before the treatment can be performed to ensure they meet the plan’s criteria.
5. What happens if my dentist charges more than the CDCP fee guide?
Dentists are not obligated to follow the CDCP fee guide. If your dentist’s fees are higher, you will be responsible for paying the difference. It is crucial to have this conversation with your dental office before beginning treatment.
6. Can seniors with existing private dental insurance use the CDCP?
No, the CDCP is specifically for Canadian residents who do not have access to any form of private or employer-sponsored dental insurance. If you have other coverage, you are not eligible for the CDCP.
Final Recommendation
The Canada Dental Care Plan is a transformative program that makes essential oral healthcare a reality for millions of uninsured Canadians in Guelph and across the country. It provides solid coverage for preventative, restorative, and prosthodontic services, though it’s important to understand its limitations, particularly regarding co-payments and non-covered services like implants.
For the clearest path forward, we recommend booking a consultation at a registered CDCP dental office. This allows a professional to assess your specific oral health needs, verify your coverage with Sun Life, and create a personalized treatment plan. This proactive step ensures there are no surprises and that you can maximize the benefits available to you for a healthy, confident smile.
Book Your Appointment Online
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Shahhaidari and the team at Dentistry on Guelph today. We are a registered CDCP provider and look forward to welcoming you.
Book Your Appointment Online or call us at (226) 541-5050.
About the Author
Dr. Reza Shahhaidari, DDS, is the Lead Dentist at Dentistry on Guelph. A dedicated member of the Ontario Dental Association with over 25 years of global dental experience, he is known for his calm, patient-first approach — combining clinical efficiency with a gentle touch for a stress-free experience.
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/dentistryonguelph/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/DentistryonGuelph
- Website: https://dentistryonguelph.com/about-us/
Produced by: CiCon Marketing in collaboration with Dentistry on Guelph.
Dental Disclaimer: This article is intended strictly for general informational purposes and should not be construed as a substitute for professional dental advice or diagnosis. It is imperative that you consult with your qualified dentist or dental healthcare provider to obtain precise cost estimates, discuss your specific treatment options, and receive personalised care tailored to your individual needs and oral health condition.
CDCP Disclaimer: Coverage details may vary. Contact your dental office or visit Canada.ca/dental for the most current information.
