Dental care in Canada just took a massive leap forward. As of June 2025, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) has expanded to include millions of adults who were previously left out of the system. If cost has ever held you back from booking a dental appointment, this could be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re self-employed, a recent grad, a single parent, or working without health coverage, the CDCP might now have you covered—literally.
Overview
Here’s what’s changed in 2025:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | June 2025 |
| Newly Eligible Groups | Adults aged 18–64 without private dental insurance |
| Income Eligibility | Under $90,000 adjusted family net income |
| Full Coverage Threshold | Income under $70,000 = 100% coverage at CDCP rates |
| Partial Coverage | $70,000–$79,999 = 60%, $80,000–$89,999 = 40% |
| Application Methods | Online, phone, or in person via Service Canada |
| Program Administered By | Government of Canada + Sun Life Financial |
This expansion ensures more Canadians than ever have access to affordable, preventive, and essential dental care.
Background
The Canadian Dental Care Plan began in 2023 by covering seniors and young children. It was built to tackle the fact that more than one in five Canadians skip dental care due to cost. The goal? Improve oral health nationwide and reduce preventable dental-related ER visits.
By 2025, the plan has added working-age adults to the mix. That means no more having to choose between rent and a root canal.
Who Qualifies Now?
New in 2025:
Adults aged 18–64 can now apply if they:
- Don’t have dental coverage through work, school, or a private plan
- Filed a Canadian tax return last year
- Are tax residents of Canada
- Have a household income under $90,000
Already Eligible:
- Children under 18
- Seniors 65 and older
- Adults with the Disability Tax Credit
Example:
Jordan, a 45-year-old freelance designer in Calgary earning $62,000, doesn’t have dental insurance. Thanks to the CDCP, he’s now eligible for 100% coverage on services at participating clinics.
What’s Covered?
The CDCP is more than just cleanings and checkups. Here’s a breakdown:
Preventive Care
- Full dental exams
- Cleanings every six months
- Fluoride treatments
- Diagnostic X-rays
Basic and Restorative Services
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Tooth extractions (including surgical)
- Dentures, crowns, and bridges (some need pre-approval)
Oral Surgery and Sedation
- Gum disease treatment
- Wisdom tooth removal
- Sedation and anesthesia for major procedures (with approval)
Orthodontic Care (Coming Soon)
- Only for medically necessary cases (e.g., cleft palate, severe alignment issues)
- Pre-authorization required
- Annual and lifetime spending limits apply
Always confirm your treatment is covered before proceeding, especially for complex or specialized procedures.
What Will It Cost You?
Coverage depends on your income:
| Adjusted Family Income | Coverage Rate |
|---|---|
| Less than $70,000 | 100% |
| $70,000–$79,999 | 60% |
| $80,000–$89,999 | 40% |
| $90,000+ | Not eligible |
Heads up: Dentists are not required to stick to CDCP fee rates. If your dentist charges more, you’ll pay the difference out of pocket. For example, if CDCP covers $200 of a $250 procedure, you’ll need to cover the remaining $50.
How to Apply
What You’ll Need:
- SIN (Social Insurance Number)
- Latest income tax return
- Contact details (address, phone, email)
Application Options:
- Online: Visit canada.ca
- Phone: Call 1-833-537-4342
- In Person: Go to a Service Canada Centre near you
Once approved, you’ll get a package from Sun Life that includes:
- Your CDCP ID card
- Co-pay info (if any)
- Start date for your coverage
Approval times vary, so it’s best to apply early to avoid waiting.
Keeping Your Coverage Active
To stay on the plan, you must reapply each year before June 1. Here’s how to stay eligible:
- File your taxes annually
- Notify CDCP of any new private insurance
- Update any changes to your address, name, or marital status
If you miss your renewal deadline, your coverage could be paused or canceled—so don’t skip the reminder.
FAQs
Who is eligible for free dental in 2025?
Adults 18–64 earning under $90K without private insurance.
Is dental care 100% free under CDCP?
Yes, if your income is under $70,000 and the dentist charges CDCP rates.
How do I apply for the dental plan?
Apply online, by phone, or in person at Service Canada.
Are braces covered under CDCP?
Only medically necessary orthodontics, with pre-approval.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes, renewal is required annually by June 1 with updated tax info.
