Over 9 million Canadians are eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), yet millions have never used it. If you’re 65 or older and your household income is under $90,000, you likely qualify for significant coverage on dental treatments you may have been putting off for years. Smile Avenue Dentistry is a registered CDCP provider serving seniors across North York and the Greater Toronto Area. Below, we’ll walk you through exactly how the plan works and how to book your covered visit with us.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a new program from the federal government that helps people, especially seniors, get the dental care they need. It’s made for Canadians who don’t have private dental insurance and may struggle to afford dental visits. The goal is to make sure everyone, especially seniors, can keep their teeth and gums healthy without worrying about high costs. Book a CDCP appointment at our North York clinic.
Eligibility Criteria for Seniors
To qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, seniors need to meet a few basic requirements. If you fit these rules, you could get help to pay for important dental care:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 65 years or older |
| Residency | Must live in Canada |
| Income | Household income below $90,000 |
| Insurance | No private dental insurance |
| Tax Filing | Must have filed income taxes |
How Much Will You Pay? (Cost-Sharing Based on Income)
Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your household income. Here is what you can expect:
| Household Income | Government Covers | Your Co-Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% | $0 |
| $70,000 to $79,999 | 60% | 40% |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 40% | 60% |
What Dental Services Are Covered for Seniors?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers many important dental services for seniors. This includes regular checkups, dental cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, and dentures. Some bigger treatments, like root canal treatments and crowns, may also be covered. However, cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening are not included. The plan helps make sure seniors can get the dental care they need to keep their teeth healthy and strong without paying too much.
Here is your content formatted into a clean, structured table:
| Category | Service | Preauthorization Required |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic & Preventive | Dental exams (complete, routine, specific, emergency) | No |
| Diagnostic & Preventive | X-rays | No |
| Diagnostic & Preventive | Cleaning (scaling) | No |
| Diagnostic & Preventive | Fluoride applications | No |
| Diagnostic & Preventive | Sealants | No |
| Restorative (Basic) | Permanent fillings | No |
| Restorative (Basic) | Temporary fillings | No |
| Restorative (Basic) | Pain control for diseased teeth | No |
| Restorative (Basic) | Other cavity treatments | No |
| Endodontic | Root canal treatments | No |
| Endodontic | Pulpectomies | No |
| Endodontic | Infection/pain relief procedures | No |
| Endodontic | Re-treatment of previous root canals | Yes |
| Periodontal | Cleaning under the gumline | No |
| Periodontal | Treating abscesses | No |
| Periodontal | Bonding for mobile teeth | Yes |
| Periodontal | Post-surgical evaluations | Yes |
| Periodontal | Non-surgical gum disease management | No |
| Restorative (Major) | Posts and post removal | No |
| Restorative (Major) | Crown repairs and re-bonding | No |
| Restorative (Major) | Crowns | Yes |
| Restorative (Major) | Cores to support crowns | Yes |
| Restorative (Major) | Posts for crown | Yes |
| Removable Prosthodontics | Complete dentures (standard and temporary) | No |
| Removable Prosthodontics | Denture repairs, relines and rebases | No |
| Removable Prosthodontics | Denture lining for comfort and healing | No |
| Removable Prosthodontics | Complete immediate and overdentures | Yes |
| Removable Prosthodontics | Partial dentures | Yes |
| Oral Surgery | Removal of teeth and roots | No |
| Oral Surgery | Surgical removal of tumours and cysts | No |
| Oral Surgery | Surgical incisions and draining | No |
| Oral Surgery | Treatments for broken jaw bones | No |
| Anesthesia & Sedation | Minimal sedation (conscious) | No |
| Anesthesia & Sedation | Moderate sedation | Yes |
| Anesthesia & Sedation | Deep sedation | Yes |
| Anesthesia & Sedation | General anaesthesia | Yes |
| Orthodontics | Medical necessity cases only (2025, spending limit applies) | Treatments for broken jawbones |
How to Apply for the Canadian Seniors Dental Plan?
You can apply online through the Government of Canada’s website. No need to go anywhere or mail anything. Just have your SIN (Social Insurance Number), income info, and proof that you don’t have private dental coverage. Applications are being accepted in phases based on your age, so watch your mail or email for a notice to apply. After you’re approved, you’ll get a card to use at the dentist. Easy and stress-free.
Once you receive your CDCP member card, you can use it at participating clinics like ours in North York.
Need Help? Contact Us Today!
Are You a Senior Eligible for Government Dental Coverage?
At Smile Avenue Dentistry, we proudly support seniors with compassionate care and expert advice. If you’re eligible for coverage under a government dental plan, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is the Best Dental Insurance for People Over 65?
The best dental insurance for people over 65 in Canada is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). It helps seniors who don’t have private insurance by covering many basic dental services like checkups, cleanings, fillings, and dentures. If you’re 65 or older and meet the income and residency requirements, the CDCP can make dental care more affordable and easier to access.
Read More: Everything You Need to Know About ODSP Dental Coverage in 2026
What Are the Available Dental Discount Plans?
Dental discount plans are not insurance, but they can help seniors save money on dental care. In Canada, these plans work like a membership; you pay a yearly fee and get access to lower prices at participating dentists. While the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) helps many seniors, dental discount plans are another option if you don’t qualify or need extra savings. Some private companies offer discount programs that reduce the cost of cleanings, fillings, dentures, and more. Always check what’s included and which dentists accept the plan before signing up.
Why North York Seniors Choose Smile Avenue for Their CDCP Appointments
At Smile Avenue Dentistry, Dr. Firouzeh Zolfagharirad and Dr. Ehsan Bayegan bring years of experience caring for older adults, from routine cleanings to full restorative treatments. We handle all CDCP direct billing in house so you never have to deal with paperwork. Our clinic at 325 Sheppard Ave East offers on-site parking and is just steps from Bayview Subway Station, and our team speaks both English and Farsi to make every visit comfortable for North York’s diverse senior community.
FAQs
What is the new dental plan for seniors in Canada?
The CDCP is a federal program that initially offered low to no-cost dental care to uninsured seniors aged 65 and over without private dental insurance, and has since expanded to include all eligible age groups.
When can seniors apply for the Canada Dental Benefit?
Applications opened in December 2023 for seniors aged 65 and above.
Will seniors get free dental care in Canada?
Seniors with household incomes under $70,000 receive full coverage; those earning $70,000–$89,999 receive partial coverage.
Are dental implants covered for seniors in Canada?
No, dental implants and related procedures are not covered under the CDCP.
Are dentures covered for seniors in Canada?
Yes, the CDCP covers complete and partial dentures, including repairs and adjustments.
Can I use CDCP alongside my private insurance?
No. One of the core eligibility requirements is that you do not have access to private dental insurance. If you are currently covered under a private plan, you do not qualify for CDCP. However, if your private coverage ends in the future, you may become eligible at that point.
My spouse is also a senior. Do we each need to apply separately?
Yes. CDCP coverage is individual, not household-based. Each person must submit their own application and meet the eligibility criteria on their own. That said, if both of you qualify, you can both benefit from the plan independently.
How long does it take to receive my CDCP card after applying?
Processing times vary, but most applicants receive their Sun Life member card within 4 to 6 weeks of approval. You will also receive a welcome package by mail with your member ID and instructions on how to use your benefits.
I applied several months ago and have not heard back. What should I do?
First, check your application status through your My Service Canada Account online. If you applied by phone or mail and cannot check online, call Service Canada at 1-833-537-4342. Delays can happen during high-volume periods, so following up directly is the fastest way to get an update.
