Getting your child the dental care they need should not be stressful or expensive. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) helps eligible families cover the cost of essential dental services for children under 18. If your child has not seen a dentist because of the cost, the CDCP may be able to help. At Smile Avenue Dentistry in North York, we welcome CDCP patients and make it easy for your family to get the care they deserve. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about the CDCP for children, from eligibility and covered services to how to apply.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan for Children?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program that helps Canadians who do not have private dental insurance pay for dental care. For children under 18, the CDCP covers a range of essential dental services so that cost is never a barrier to a healthy smile. The plan is designed for families with a household income below a certain threshold, making dental care more accessible for those who need it most. If your child is eligible, the CDCP pays for or reduces the cost of treatments like cleanings, fillings, and x-rays at participating dental clinics like Smile Avenue Dentistry in North York.
Is Your Child Eligible for the CDCP?
To qualify for the CDCP, your child must meet two basic requirements: age and household income. Here is a simple breakdown of both.
Age Requirements
Your child must be under 18 years old to qualify for the CDCP as a dependent. As long as they are a Canadian resident and do not have access to private dental insurance, they can be covered under the plan.
Household Income Requirements
Your total family income must be below $90,000 per year to qualify. The amount the CDCP covers depends on your income level:
- Full coverage: Household income under $70,000
- Partial coverage: Household income between $70,000 and $79,999
- Reduced coverage: Household income between $80,000 and $89,999
- No coverage: Household income $90,000 or above
The lower your income, the more the plan covers for your child’s dental care.
Read More: CDCP Renewal: What You Need to Know for 2026
Eligibility for Children Under 18
| Eligibility Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | Under 18 years old |
| Residency | Must be a Canadian resident |
| Tax Return | Filed or listed as a dependent |
| Private Dental Insurance | Must not have private dental coverage |
| Household Income | Below $90,000 per year |
| Coverage Amount | Based on household income level |
What Dental Services Are Covered for Children?
The CDCP covers a wide range of dental services for children under 18. These services are grouped into basic and essential treatments that support your child’s oral health from an early age. Here is what is included:
| Service Category | Covered Treatments |
|---|---|
| Preventive Care | Cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental sealants |
| Diagnostic Services | X-rays, oral exams |
| Restorative Care | Fillings (white and silver) |
| Endodontic Services | Root canals (selected teeth) |
| Periodontal Services | Gum disease treatments |
| Oral Surgery | Tooth extractions |
| Prosthodontic Services | Dentures (in some cases) |
It is important to know that not every treatment is fully covered, and some services may require a co-payment depending on your household income. You can review the full list of covered services directly on the Government of Canada’s official CDCP page. Your dentist will review your child’s treatment plan and let you know exactly what is covered before any work begins.
At Smile Avenue Dentistry in North York, we work directly with the CDCP so your family does not have to worry about the paperwork. We make sure your child gets the care they need in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
How Much Does the CDCP Cover for Children in Canada?
As a parent, the first question you probably have is: how much will this actually save me? The honest answer is it depends on your household income, but for many families the savings are significant. The CDCP uses an income-based model, meaning the less you earn, the more the government covers. For families earning under $70,000 a year, the plan can cover up to 100% of eligible dental services for your child.
| Household Income | Government Pays | You Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | Up to 100% | 0% |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | Up to 60% | 40% |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | Up to 40% | 60% |
| $90,000 and above | Not Eligible | Full Cost |
Keep in mind that coverage only applies to eligible treatments under the plan. Always ask your dentist for a pre-treatment estimate before any procedure begins so you know exactly what to expect. At Smile Avenue Dentistry, we review your child’s coverage with you upfront so there are never any surprises on your bill.
Read More: CDCP Eligibility: Who Can Access Canadian Dental Care in 2026?
How to Apply for the CDCP for Your Child
Applying for the CDCP is simpler than most parents expect. Here is how to do it step by step:
- Make Sure Your Taxes Are Filed
The government uses your tax return to verify your household income. Make sure you and your spouse (if applicable) have filed your most recent tax return before applying.
- Wait for an Invitation from Service Canada
The CDCP does not work like a typical application. Service Canada will send you an invitation letter by mail or through your My Service Canada Account once your child is deemed eligible based on your tax information.
- Accept the Invitation
Once you receive the invitation, you can accept it online at My Service Canada Account, by phone at 1-833-537-4342, or by mail.
- Find a Participating Dentist
Not all dental clinics accept the CDCP, so make sure your dentist is a participating provider. Smile Avenue Dentistry in North York is a proud CDCP provider, welcoming children and families with open arms.
- Book Your Child’s Appointment
Once your child is enrolled, simply book their appointment and bring their CDCP information. We handle the rest.
Smile Avenue Dentistry is a proud CDCP provider in North York. Book your child’s appointment today and let us take care of the rest.
FAQ
Do infants also qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Yes. Infants can qualify for the CDCP if they are part of a family that meets the program’s eligibility rules. The child must be a Canadian resident, the family must have filed their taxes, and the household income must be under the program limit set by the Government of Canada.
How does the CDCP support pediatric dentistry?
The CDCP makes pediatric dentistry more accessible for Canadian families by covering essential dental services for children such as cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and extractions.
Can a child use the CDCP if a parent has private dental insurance?
No. A child cannot use the CDCP if they already have access to private dental insurance through a parent or guardian. The program is designed for families who do not have any private dental coverage.
At what age do children become eligible for the CDCP?
Children can be eligible for the CDCP from birth if their family meets the program requirements. Coverage is available for children under 18 years old who qualify for the plan.
