Starting May 1, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) will expand its eligibility to cover more adults, continuing the federal government’s efforts to make dental care more affordable for Canadians without private insurance. The next phase of the program rollout allows adults aged 55 to 64 to begin applying on May 1, with applications opening to those aged 18 to 34 on May 15, and those aged 35 to 54 on May 29. Coverage for seniors, children under 18, and adults approved through the disability tax credit program has already been available for care ending June 30, 2025.
Introduced through the 2023 federal budget, the CDCP is open to Canadian residents whose adjusted family net income is under $90,000 and who do not have access to private dental insurance. The program has already approved over 3.4 million Canadians, with nearly 1.7 million having received dental care so far. About 25,000 oral health providers — including dentists, dental hygienists, denturists, specialists, and accredited dental schools — are currently participating in the program.
To qualify for the CDCP, applicants must meet four basic requirements: they must not have private dental coverage, must have filed their Canadian income tax return for the previous year, must have an adjusted family net income below $90,000, and must reside in Canada for tax purposes. Those who already receive dental benefits through other government programs can still apply, with benefits coordinated across programs to maximize coverage. Canadians can track the progress of their application using the Canadian Dental Care Plan Status Checker online tool.
The CDCP provides coverage for a wide range of dental services, including diagnostic exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, crowns, dentures, extractions, and sedation services. Orthodontic services are expected to be added in 2025. Coverage ranges from 40 per cent to 100 per cent of the CDCP’s established fees, depending on income, with full coverage provided to individuals or families earning less than $70,000 annually. Patients are encouraged to check with their oral health provider ahead of appointments about any possible out-of-pocket costs.
Current CDCP members can renew their coverage for the 2025–2026 period once they file their 2024 income tax return and receive their Notice of Assessment. Renewals are completed online through the CDCP portal using the client number issued on the member card or renewal notification letter.
As the program continues to expand, the federal government hopes to significantly reduce financial barriers to dental care for millions more Canadians.