Access to dental care has always been a challenge for many Canadians.
The government has made things easier by introducing the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).
This program is a game changer for oral health in Canada.
It is designed to support individuals and families with low incomes and no private insurance.
But who exactly qualifies for this benefit in 2025?
Let’s break it down so you can see whether you or your loved ones might be eligible.
Eligibility Based on Age and Income
To qualify for the CDCP in 2025, the first thing to consider is your age and annual adjusted family net income.
The plan is being rolled out in phases, and as of 2025, it’s open to:
- Children under 18
- Seniors aged 65 and older
- Adults with valid Disability Tax Credit certificates
- All other eligible Canadian residents (starting sometime in 2025)
But qualifying for care through the CDCP also depends heavily on your household income:
- If your family income is below $70,000, you may receive full coverage
- If your family income is between $70,000 and $89,999, partial coverage may apply
- Households earning $90,000 or more will not qualify for this program
You Must Not Have Private Dental Insurance
One of the most important conditions of the CDCP is that you must not have private dental insurance.
This includes plans provided by an employer or purchased personally.
If you already have private coverage for dental care, you are not eligible, even if you meet the income or age requirements.
That said, if you are only covered for care under government programs like provincial or territorial benefits, you may still be eligible.
The government will coordinate with those programs to ensure you get the care you need without overlap.
Citizenship and Residency Requirements
You also need to be a Canadian resident to apply for the CDCP.
Here’s what that means:
- You must be living in Canada
- You must have filed your income tax return for the previous year
- You must have a valid Canadian social insurance number
If you meet these residency conditions and the income and insurance requirements, you should be good to go.
It’s also worth mentioning that eligibility checks will happen annually.
Also Read: Mississauga Families: CDCP Open to All Adults
How to Apply and What Happens Next
Applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan is simple and can be done through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Depending on your age group and when your eligibility starts, you may receive a letter inviting you to apply, or you may need to apply online.
Once approved, you will receive confirmation and can start booking appointments with a participating dentist.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, ensure they are part of the CDCP network.
The provider must agree to the terms and billing process of the program.
What Services Are Covered Under the CDCP?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is meant to cover essential oral health care services.
This can include:
- Routine check-ups and cleanings
- X-rays and diagnostic services
- Fillings and extractions
- Root canals and dentures, in some cases
It’s important to note that some services might still require a co-payment based on your income level.
Before getting treatment, it’s always a good idea to check with your dentist in Mississauga about what’s covered.
Final Thoughts
The CDCP offers a much-needed solution for Canadians who have long gone without proper care due to cost or lack of insurance.
By focusing on income, insurance status, and residency, the program ensures that help goes to those who truly need it.
Whether you’re a parent, a senior, or someone without coverage, the Canadian Dental Care Plan could be the key to maintaining a healthy smile in 2025 and beyond.
Contact us for more information.