The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is helping millions of Canadians access dental care they previously could not afford. If you do not have private dental insurance, the CDCP may provide coverage for essential dental treatments.
However, many people still have questions such as:
- What dental services does the CDCP actually cover?
- Are there treatments that are not included?
- How do you use CDCP benefits at a dental clinic?
This guide explains CDCP dental coverage in 2026, including what treatments are included, how the co-payment system works, and how to use your benefits at Forest Manor Dental in North York.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a federal program designed to make dental care more affordable for Canadians who do not have access to private dental insurance.
The plan mainly supports people such as:
- seniors living on fixed incomes
- families without workplace dental benefits
- workers in jobs that do not provide insurance
- individuals between jobs or self-employed
The program is administered by Sun Life on behalf of the Government of Canada.
Eligible patients can receive coverage for a range of preventive, diagnostic, and restorative dental services.
Learn more about how CDCP works at our clinic here.
What Dental Services Are Covered Under the CDCP?
CDCP dental coverage is divided into several categories. Not all services are covered equally, and some treatments may require prior approval.
Below are the main types of dental care included in the program.
Preventive and Diagnostic Care
Preventive care is the foundation of the CDCP program. These services help maintain oral health and detect problems early.
Covered preventive services generally include:
- routine dental exams
- dental X-rays
- professional cleanings (scaling)
- root planing for gum health
- fluoride treatments
These treatments are important because they help prevent more serious dental problems in the future.
For many Canadians, routine checkups are often delayed due to cost. The CDCP aims to remove this barrier by making preventive dental care more accessible.
Basic Restorative Dental Treatments
The CDCP also covers many treatments used to repair damaged or decayed teeth.
Common covered services include:
- dental fillings for cavities
- simple tooth extractions
- root canal treatments on eligible teeth
Both amalgam fillings and composite (tooth-coloured) fillings may be covered depending on the tooth and treatment requirements.
These procedures help restore dental function and prevent small problems from developing into more serious issues.
Dentures and Prosthetic Services
For patients who have lost teeth, the CDCP may cover complete or partial dentures.
This coverage can help restore the ability to:
- chew comfortably
- speak clearly
- maintain facial structure
However, denture treatments may require pre-authorization from Sun Life before treatment begins.
Your dental clinic will usually help confirm coverage and obtain approval when necessary.
What Is Not Covered by the CDCP?
Although the CDCP covers many essential dental services, some treatments are not included.
Generally, the following procedures are not covered:
- cosmetic teeth whitening
- dental veneers
- cosmetic bonding
- most orthodontic treatments for adults
- dental implants
Some advanced dental treatments may also require approval before coverage is granted.
If a treatment is only partially covered, your dentist will explain the cost and available options before proceeding.
How CDCP Co-Payments Work
Unlike some private insurance plans, the CDCP uses a sliding scale based on household income.
Your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) determines how much the plan covers.
Income-Based Coverage
| Family Income | CDCP Coverage | Your Co-Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% covered | No co-payment |
| $70,000–$79,999 | 60% covered | 40% co-payment |
| $80,000–$89,999 | 40% covered | 60% co-payment |
The coverage applies to the CDCP fee schedule, which may differ slightly from standard dental fees.
Before your appointment, dental clinics can usually estimate your costs based on your income category.
Using Your CDCP Benefits at Forest Manor Dental
Forest Manor Dental accepts patients covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
Using your benefits is simple.
Before Your Appointment
When booking your appointment:
- inform the clinic that you have CDCP coverage
- bring your CDCP member card or confirmation letter
Our administrative team will verify your coverage with Sun Life before your visit.
During Your Visit
The clinic will:
- provide your dental examination or treatment
- submit claims directly to Sun Life
- explain any co-payment required
This means you do not need to submit insurance paperwork yourself.
Learn more about our dental services here:
https://www.forestmanordental.com/services
Why Preventive Dental Care Is So Important
Many people focus on major dental procedures when thinking about dental insurance. However, the most valuable part of the CDCP is often preventive care.
Regular dental visits help detect problems early.
For example:
- A small cavity can often be treated with a simple filling.
- If left untreated, the same cavity could eventually require a root canal or extraction.
Preventive care such as cleanings and exams helps protect both your oral health and your long-term dental costs.
If it has been several years since your last dental visit, the CDCP can make it easier to restart routine care.
Making the Most of Your CDCP Benefits in 2026
CDCP benefits operate on a calendar-year basis.
This means that your coverage typically resets each year, and unused benefits cannot be carried forward.
To maximise your coverage:
- book your dental exam early in the year
- schedule recommended treatments within the same year
- attend regular preventive appointments
Planning ahead ensures you receive the full value of your benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDCP Coverage
Does CDCP cover dental care for my entire family?
Eligibility is assessed individually. Some family members may qualify while others may not, depending on income and insurance access.
Can I still qualify if I have partial dental insurance?
Generally, the CDCP is only available to people who do not have access to private dental insurance. If you already have workplace dental coverage, you may not qualify.
Are emergency dental visits covered?
Yes. Emergency dental treatment may be covered when it is necessary to relieve pain or treat an urgent dental problem.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact your dental clinic as soon as possible.
Using CDCP Dental Coverage in North York
If you are eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, it can significantly reduce the cost of essential dental care.
Forest Manor Dental accepts CDCP patients and provides guidance on how to use your benefits.
To schedule an appointment or ask about your coverage, visit:
https://www.forestmanordental.com/contact
or call 647-350-6683.
Forest Manor Dental is located at 70 Forest Manor Road, Unit 2-3 in North York, close to Don Mills Station with convenient parking for patients.
